Residents and business owners in the Woodquay area of Galway city have expressed frustration at plans to close part of the area to traffic for a four-month period.
They say that Galway City Council failed to engage with them in advance of the move, which is taking place as part of an effort to facilitate outdoor dining over the summer.
Concrete bollards have been placed down the centre of the area, which is located between the city centre and the River Corrib.
Traffic will be prohibited from travelling from Daly's Place to the Headford Road from next Monday. Restrictions will remain in place until the end of September.
But many businesses say the measures will have a detrimental effect on their trade.
In a letter sent to the City Manager they asked that the views of all residents and business owners be canvassed.
The traders concerned say there is a "high degree of common ground" and general support for enhancements to the area.
But they say it is essential that all opinions be gathered by the council, to ensure tensions do not "boil over".
Liam Forde, whose family has lived in Woodquay for years said the place looks "akin to Beirut" after the local authority installed bollards in recent days.
He is concerned at the potential for anti-social behaviour as a result of large crowds congregating in the area and says there will be traffic chaos because of the road being closed off.
A spokesperson for the council said the measures to facilitate outdoor dining will be kept under review, throughout the coming weeks.
The local authority said all proposed closures were advertised in advance, with a total of 80 submissions received in relation to the plans at a number of locations around the city.
