Dublin City Council is currently drafting a revised Casual Trading Bye-Laws plan, which proposes some important changes that traders should be aware of. These changes aim to better manage the city’s trading spaces, making room for new opportunities while phasing out some traditional locations.
What’s in the Draft?
New Designated Trading Areas:
The draft suggests adding popular spots like Docklands, O’Connell Street, Foster Place, Portobello Harbour, the Moore Street evening market, Temple Bar Square, and others. These areas are seen as emerging or vibrant spaces with good footfall potential.
Areas to Be De-Designated:
Meanwhile, some familiar spots will be de-designated. These include the top of Grafton Street, Store Street, Wolfe Tone Park, Heuston Station, and Ranelagh Triangle (except for themed events). Traders who regularly use these locations will want to consider alternate pitches or routes.Standardised Trading Hours:
The draft also proposes standardising trading hours by introducing Sundays and Thursday late-night trading slots. The current fee levels will remain unchanged, keeping trading affordable.
Once the Planning Committee reviews and approves this draft, a public consultation will be launched. This is a great chance for traders to review the proposals and share their views with the council.
What Does This Mean for You?
For market and street traders in Dublin, these changes could mean fresh opportunities in new areas that attract good crowds. Evening markets and the Docklands are particularly exciting spaces to explore for those looking to expand or try something different.
However, it also means some traditional pitches will no longer be available or will be restricted. Traders currently operating in de-designated areas should prepare for these changes by considering alternative locations early on.
The addition of Sunday and late-night trading hours may provide more flexibility to trade at times that suit different customer patterns, which can help boost sales.
A Broader Trend
While this update focuses on Dublin City Council’s plans, other local authorities in Ireland are also reviewing and updating their casual trading bye-laws to better suit modern market needs. Traders around the country may see similar changes in their own areas.
Key Points for Traders
This draft revision of Dublin’s Casual Trading Bye-Laws offers both opportunities and challenges. Expanding into vibrant new areas like Docklands and evening markets could bring fresh customers and boost your business. At the same time, losing some traditional pitches means it’s important to be flexible and proactive in exploring alternatives.
New trading hours, including Sundays and Thursday late nights, could open up extra chances to trade when footfall is high. And keeping fees stable means trading remains affordable.
Being involved in the public consultation is crucial. Your feedback can shape the final rules to better support traders’ needs and ensure a fair, thriving market scene.
What You Can Do
- Stay Alert: Watch for the public consultation launch after Planning Committee approval.
- Get Involved: Review the draft bye-laws carefully and share your views via the council’s consultation process.
- Plan Ahead: Consider how the changes might affect your usual trading spots and whether new areas or trading hours might benefit you.
- Reach Out: Contact IOMST if you need help understanding the changes or want support submitting your feedback.
Together, traders can make sure the future of casual trading in Dublin reflects their voices and interests.
If you’ve seen or heard of a proposed expansion near you, we’d love to hear about it. The more we know, the better we can keep members informed.
For more Guides Help, Support. Get in touch with IOMST and become a member today!
Grainne & Greg
What we do
The Irish Organisation for Market and Street Traders (IOMST) is dedicated to safeguarding the interests of market and street traders across Ireland. We provide support, advice, and information to help traders navigate regulations, protect their rights, and grow their businesses. Stay informed and connected with IOMST’s weekly newsletter and practical resources. Click here to find out more or become a member click here.