Newry’s Hill Street car parking removal “causing huge concern to traders”

Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins has said that the announcement by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) that car parking spaces along Hill Street were to be removed with immediate effect has caused “huge concern and anger” amongst the local business community.

Speaking to Newry Times, the Sinn Féin MLA explained, “Traders have been advised by Council Officials that the DFI Pilot Scheme to remove car parking spaces on Hill Street as part of a walking/cycling/safe distance initiative is proceeding this week.”

The local MLA said the decision had caused huge shock and anger amongst the business community.

According to Kimmins, the feedback given to the Council by key stakeholders on the issue was a “resounding rejection of the current proposals.”

The Newry MLA confirmed that she had contacted the DfI and Council to request that any change in the parking capacity along Hill Street is put on hold until proper consultation with local traders is carried out.

“I am supportive of walking and cycling initiatives and safe shopping, however, there has to be balance in any scheme rolled out,” she insisted.

“There are genuine concerns about the rationale behind the decision to remove car parking spaces.

“Ultimately the very negative impact it will have on the sustainability of those businesses along Hill Street, who, like many others in our city, are doing their utmost to stay open.

She added, “I have requested that no change is enacted until the DfI meets with Business representatives to discuss this scheme thoroughly.”

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Posted by NewryTimes News on May 28 2020. Filed under Business, Community. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry