Galway's Eyre Square reopens tomorrow after a €9.6 million redevelopment project.
The work on the project was halted last June after the original contractor, Samuel Kingston Construction, pulled out. But another contractor - SIAC Construction - stepped in and the square is due to be re-opened to the public tomorrow.
Galway City manager Joe McGrath said it would be a good day for the people of Galway.
"There will still be some small continuing works but the people of Galway will have their square back tomorrow afternoon," he said.
The new square will contain 20 per cent more green space, new granite paving, 120 trees, and a children's play area.
Businesses in Galway city centre had complained loudly about the disruption caused by the long-delayed project, which began in February 2004.
"I think that while there were undoubtedly difficulties, the major business associations such as the Galway Chamber of Commerce always supported it," said Mr McGrath.
He told RTE radio that the original redevelopment budget of €2.4 million only covered the cost of the paving contract and did not include the cost of planning and consultation. The final cost of the project will be €9.6 million.