Long-stay parking affecting access to shops in Leitrim town, meeting hears

People parking all day on a busy street in Manorhamilton have been affecting older people and those with limited mobility’s access to businesses they avail of.

Because of this, Cllr James Gilmartin asked at March’s meeting of Manorhamilton Municipal District if the Council could give consideration to the introduction of a one-hour parking limit on New Line.

“This street hosts a range of local businesses whose customers frequently include older people and individuals with limited mobility. Short stay parking would help ensure regular turnover of spaces, improve access to essential services, and support the continued viability of these businesses,” stated Cllr Gilmartin’s motion.

He asked that the Council explore appropriate signage, enforcement options, and any necessary consultation with affected residents and traders, with a view to implementing a fair and effective parking management system on New Line.

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A response from the Roads department confirmed that the Council can install signage to encourage one-hour short stay parking at these locations.

It also noted that there are disabled parking bays within the town of Manorhamilton that can be used by people with mobility issues.

“If these measures do not change the parking behaviour, we can look at parking byelaws within the urban area of the town,” the reply concluded.

Cllr Gilmartin welcomed the reply, saying that “hopefully it will have a positive effect for businesses.”

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