Dublin City Council has stated that Portobello Plaza in south Dublin will be closed this weekend, with gardaí in place to prevent large crowds from gathering.

The council launched a campaign urging people to stop gathering to consume alcohol in the Portobello area last month, claiming that anti-social behaviour and littering has been an increasing problem. Many local residents have complained to both DCC and An Garda Siochána about the issue.

Portobello Plaza is located in Dublin’s south inner city on the banks of the Grand Canal, and has been a popular place to meet outdoors since the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the closure of pubs.

DCC confirmed the closure of the plaza this morning, stating that it “regrets” the decision:

“Dublin City Council is very aware of the importance of public spaces in recent times but some behaviour at this location in recent weeks has been completely unacceptable. Up to a thousand people have congregated in the area on recent weekends, without due regard for Covid-19 restrictions,” the council said.

“The associated anti-social behaviour is having a hugely detrimental effect on both the local community and the environment,” it added.

The plaza was due to close early on Friday until next Monday morning, with the council saying “the situation will be reviewed next week”.

Portobello Plaza in Dublin will be closed this weekend.

Dublin City Council says some behaviour at the location in recent weeks has been "completely unacceptable".

Closed from early afternoon today until Monday morning. Situation will be reviewed next week.@VirginMediaNews pic.twitter.com/DjT7DedIvX

— Rob O'Hanrahan (@RobOHanrahan) May 14, 2021