Calls to remove 'broken digital signs' in Limerick

LIMERICK City and County Council says it is investigating options to restore the digital messaging signs in the centre to operation.

There are a number of signs across the city which, when working, show the number of car spaces remaining in multi-storey car parks.

These have not been working for an extended period of time, and it’s sparked a call to have them removed from Sean McIlfatrick of Thomondgate.

Mr McIlfatrick, who worked for Lawless Flowers in Roches Stree, said: “They shouldn’t be part of the city-scape any more with the new public realm. They are obsolete, of no benefit. They don’t carry any function anymore.”

However, in response to a query from the Limerick Leader, a spokesperson for the local authority indicated they may be restored to use.

Limerick student awarded prestigious scholarship

In a statement, they said: “Limerick City and County Council can confirm that a number of variable message signs in Limerick city are not currently operational due to a communications equipment issue. The council is exploring options with a view to restoring this service.”

Mr McIlfatrick had called for their removal as part of the programme the council is currently undertaking to upgrade its tourism signs in the city centre.

“The issue is - are they useful or are they an eyesore?” he asked. “None of the car park owners have complained they are not working. None of the councillors seem to be bothered they are not working. Nobody driving cars seems to be ringing up to say they are not working.

“Instead of investing money to make them work, they should use that money to take them away,” he concluded.

The road signs showing the spots remaining in car parks were first introduced to the city centre back in 2011.