Yesterday An Bord Gáis began digging up the new paving.

The scheme, from the Wolfe Tone Bridge to Steamer's Quay, involves repairing quay walls, new paving, railings, lighting and the building of an arch.

My steward comes to me as I am admiring my new paving stones and says quietly: 'I would have a word with you, your ladyship.'

New paving surfaces let rainwater through to the ground, lessening the load on drainage systems and restoring aquifers.

"Then it's time to start tearing up the streets and put those new paving stones to better use."