Portlaoise Main Street may be getting new 'part-time' taxi rank

Night life revellers and residents in Portlaoise town centre may have less of a trek up the Main Street to find a taxi, with the agreement for a new "part-time" taxi rank.

Portlaoise Municipal District Cllr Tommy Mulligan, suggests that a loading bay at Lower Main Street can be used for a taxi rank after 6pm daily.

"I know we are pretty well served in Top (Market) Square, at Kavanaghs and Mick Wynnes. I'm requested this opposite the Golden Grill at Doyles. It's only used as a loading bay during business hours. It makes complete sense.

"With the new apartments at the Convent there will be greater footfall and a new taxi rank will benefit those new residents. Businesses down there will all appreciate this," Cllr Mulligan said.

Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley seconded his motion, tabled to the January district meeting.

The taxi rank, at 18 Main Street, will be considered as part of a future review of the Portlaoise Parking Bye Laws, according to the reply from Laois County Council's roads section.

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They however note that there is an existing rank a short walk away.

"The loading bay at 88 Main Street currently operates as a taxi rank from 7pm  to 6.30am Thursday to Sunday. This is within aproximately 50 metres of 18 Main Street," they said.