Cars returned to the streets of Ennis on Saturday when a six-month trial pedestrianisation period was abruptly terminated after just six weeks by the democratic vote of Ennis Town Council.

Elected members voted by a majority of 6-3 last week to discontinue the trial after lobbying from the town’s business community whose members complained about a loss of trade when the streets were closed to vehicles on Saturdays.

However town manager Gerard Dollard has expressed disappointment that the trial period was not completed.

“It is disappointing that the council could not complete the trial which would have provided a solid base for delivering on one of the core objectives of the Ennis Town Development Plan 2008-2014, namely the pedestrianisation of O’Connell Street and Abbey Street.

“Review mechanisms had been put in place to assess the effects of the trial on trading and consumer attitudes. However, this review will now not be possible due to the discontinuation of the trial,” said Mr Dollard.

Ger Dollard clearly indicated that the vote by councillors will not definitively settle the issue.

“The council is not abandoning our objective of introducing pedestrianisation on a permanent basis as we regard such a move as key to the enhancement of the overall shopping experience in Ennis, as well as the improved safety of pedestrians.

“The purpose of the trial period was to allow an opportunity for pedestrianisation to be monitored over a short period and allow issues to be addressed.

“The Council executive remains committed to working with the various parties to find a way to deliver on this important objective for the development of the town.”