More footfall expected on Kilkenny streets as the night-time economy pilot ramps up

The Kilkenny City pilot Night Time Economy Action Plan continues to be rolled into operation with the latest part of the process is an invitation to local city cafés to apply for funding to introduce engaging cultural programming after 6pm, a move widely welcomed.

However, some concerns have been expressed over an unhappy combination of markets with the pub trade — a fear Chairperson of the Kilkenny Vintners Association, Anthony Morrisson, doesn't hold.

"In actual fact it will bring more positive footfall to the streets so where you have someone that may not be in pub mode and had no reason to come out, will now enter a space they previously may not have entered," he said.

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"The overall objective here is for the better street scape of Kilkenny, creating a better feeling and selling point."

The Christy's Bar owner also revealed a strategic review is ongoing and is confident there will be an extension of the pilot.

"We're only a very, very small cog in this project but fortunately or unfortunately we (pubs) are like the elephant in the room because by association of night you assume it’s alcohol but there is huge things that will be achieved not only by vintners, but by everyone in the night," Mr Morrisson continued.

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