Roscommon County Council will implement 2-hour car parking on Main Street in Roscommon town from next week in a bid to make more on-street parking available throughout the day.
Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott has welcomed the move, and urged those using the spaces to be mindful of the time.
“I’m delighted that there has been a breakthrough on this and from next week each space from AIB to Lanesboro Street will be marked as 2-hour parking,” he said.
“I’m particularly grateful to the Council engineer and Director of Services for their interaction with me on this very important issue that I faced with businesses in Roscommon town.
“It’s an issue I’ve been very passionate about since being elected as I work in retail myself and understand the concerns of customers and businesses”.
Cllr. McDermott stressed that while there has been no bye-law introduced regarding the spaces, he was relying on the goodwill of motorists to abide by the time limit.
“It is unfortunate that we had to go to this extreme because of those who parked on Main Street from 9-5 each day. That’s unacceptable because there is ample parking off Roscommon town with 3,000 spaces and excellent signage installed by Roscommon County Council,” he said.
“I do understand that people with mobility issues and the elderly find it difficult but this should be a help in freeing up spaces during the day and particularly on Fridays when many elderly people come into town”.
Cllr. McDermott said the time limits would also relieve pressure on street traders and businesses situated on Main Street.
“Every box will be marked so as not to discriminate against businesses. I would like to emphasise how lucky we are to have free parking in Roscommon town and this point has been made to me personally by visitors from other towns,” he said.
“This is a great town and we are very fortunate to have free parking as an asset”.
