'I don't feel safe': Local businesses raise concerns over lack of lighting in Portlaoise

Local businesses at Hynds Square in Portlaoise have raised concerns over the lack of lighting in the area at night time which they claim has fuelled antisocial behaviour from groups of young people.

The square is located just off Main Street in the town and has been noted as being a popular spot for gangs of youths to hang around. 

Local businesses believe that the lack of lighting in the area at night has only exasperated the situation. Laois County Council and Portlaoise Gardaí have been made aware of the issue, however it remains unresolved. 

Iris Hand and Foot Spa took to Instagram to raise the issue, saying: "As of now, the lights are still on during the day and continue to leave the area in complete darkness at night, which is especially concerning for the winter months." They added: "it needs to be addressed for the safety of everyone in the area." 

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JBR Art Haus has echoed this concern, saying that lights only work in the morning when they are not needed. They claimed that the benches in the area have attracted groups of young people who are engaging in antisocial behaviour including drug use. 

They also noted that the umbrellas at the benches have been slashed and have yet to be prepared. Although local council workers regularly clean up the litter left in the area from the youths, the council have yet to address the main concern at Hynds Square, the business said. 

Staff at JBR Art Haus said that the area does have plenty of traffic, especially from guests at the Midlands Park Hotel just up the street. They asked what kind of impression the poorly lit area gives to people visiting the town. 

The craft shop is a popular spot for children's parties in the evenings and so they are very concerned about the situation.

They said the issue has been persistent for months, but despite contacting the Council and Gardaí the lighting and antisocial behaviour has yet to be addressed.

The LSPCA commented that staff were forced to ring the Gardaí on numerous occasions due to gangs of young people causing trouble at the square. One incident was noted when bottles and cans were thrown at the shop door. 

The LSPCA also believe that the lighting issue is directly influencing the safety concerns felt by people in the area.

As the evenings grow darker coming into the winter months, staff have become more anxious about the situation. As it stands, staff tend to close the shop at the end of the day in pairs or groups.

She concluded: "This can't continue for another autumn/winter season. Like the other teachers and students, I don't feel safe."

Laois County Council has been contacted for a comment in relation to the issues.