Reports this morning claim the paving and cobble stones on Shop Street in Galway are to be replaced, because of concern over the number of people falling over and being injured.

A spokesman for Galway City Council told the Ireland edition of The Times that plans are underway to remove the uneven paving on the city centre’s main street – which has been the subject of several compensation claims.

The council is looking at options regarding the pedestrianised area in the city centre, and preliminary design work may start later this year.

However, the spokesman said there will need to be an extensive consultation process with all stakeholders in advance of any works, so it’s unlikely any works will start this year.

The Connacht Tribune recently reported two incidents in which women needed medical attention after tripping on the cobbled street.

A woman in her 80’s damaged her cheekbone after falling, while another woman in her 60’s broke two front teeth after tripping on the cobbles.