WHILE there is no guarantee of sunshine on the Sunny South East as we move into the autumn/winter season, revellers will nonetheless be thrilled to hear that they will still be able to dine outdoors in style and comfort when the summer ends.
Waterford has been granted almost €500,000 for the permanent development of outdoor dining facilities in two locations, under Fáilte Ireland’s Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme.
Waterford City Trail (Bailey’s New Street to O’Connell Street/John Street) has been granted a total of €354,919; while Grattan Square, Dungarvan has been approved for funding of €151,774.
Commenting on the boon for the region, Michael Quinn, Director of Economic Development, Waterford City and County Council, said that the funding will assist local businesses in extending their outdoor dining offers all year round.
provide a permanency to outdoor dining
“The addition of accessible outdoor seating and heating will provide a permanency to outdoor dining in Waterford city and Dungarvan, and provide more options to locals and visitors.
“Waterford City and County Council is working closely with local businesses in the roll-out of the outdoor infrastructure as we build on consolidating Waterford’s outdoor dining offering right throughout the year.”
a more comfortable outdoor dining experience
Meanwhile, Lisa Fitzgerald, proprietor of The Italian Bakery and The Ice Cream Place said, “In the main, we have enjoyed a relatively successful summer of outdoor dining in Waterford. However, as we come into the autumn, we will be in position to provide our customers with a more comfortable outdoor dining experience.”