Call for greater balance of retail in Waterford city
Concern was expressed about the number of vape shops in Waterford city.
Concerns have been raised over what has been described as an “overabundance” of beauty salons, nail bars and vape shops in Waterford city.
The issue was raised at a recent Metropolitan council meeting, where it was argued that there is currently “no balance of other retail” in parts of the city and that a greater mix of businesses should be encouraged.
Particular concern was expressed about the number of vape shops, with the meeting hearing that the proliferation of such businesses has become an issue nationally.
It was suggested that there is currently no distinct planning mechanism specifically controlling how many vape shops can operate in a particular area.
The councillor questioned whether such businesses could be required to obtain planning permission in their own right, regardless of the existing use of a premises.
This, it was argued, could give the local authority greater control over the number of similar shops operating within a particular location and provide greater oversight of the overall retail mix.
The meeting also heard that defining what constitutes a vape shop could present difficulties, with some operating as standalone businesses while vaping products are also sold as part of larger commercial operations.
It was suggested that some form of taskforce could be established to examine the issue and consider measures aimed at encouraging a more diverse range of businesses within Waterford city centre.
The councillor said greater consideration should be given to achieving a balance between different types of retail and preventing an excessive concentration of similar businesses in individual areas.
