Retailing at the Periphery: An Analysis of Dublin’s Tertiary City-Centre Shopping Streets (1972-2002)

This research examined changes in Dublin’s tertiary city centre shopping streets over a thirty year period to 2002. An observational study of the occupancy of the city’s tertiary streetscape was undertaken in the summer of 2002 and compared with historical data. Results indicate significant change over the period examined: an increased vacancy rate, a very low survival rate, a considerable incidence of non retail specific activities, a decline in traditional retail offerings and the emergence of new categories of retailer. The paper concludes by suggesting a proactive approach is required by present day retailers in the tertiary streets to ensure future survival.