This article is from page 9 of the 2008-07-29 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 9 JPG
PRESSURE continues to mount on Ennis Town Council to solve parking difficulties caused by ongoing con- struction work in the Parnell Street car park.
Traders and taxi drivers operating in the area say that the reduction in car-parking space brought about as a result of the works is contributing to a gradual but noticeable decline in business activity.
Figures put forward be representa- tives of the Parnell Street Trader’s association at the July meeting of Ennis Town Council suggested that as many as 13 businesses have closed in recent months.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) commenced work on the upper section of the Ennis Flood Relief Scheme two months ago.
The main works include the con- struction of new river walls and three dedicated surface water pumping stations at Island car park, Parnell Street car park and Mill Road
Brendan Rochford owner of Roch- ford’s pharmacy located on Parnell Street, said the loss of 26 parking spaces is having a major impact on the area.
He said, “The work that is being done is needed and 1s definitely wel- come but there is no doubt that it has created definate obstacles for busi- eas
“If the Council were able to provide alternative areas for parking within the town for staff then that would free up quite a lot of space for cus- events) ace
John Dillane, owner of Banner Motor Factors said, ““We are not the town planners. The responsibility
for solving ongoing problems with parking in Ennis should not lie solely 21 eb eae
He added, “I know they are talk- ing about freeing up the top level of car park in Dunnes, but how is that meant to help customers who are shopping in Parnell Street?”
Taxi driver Martin White said that further meetings are being sought with the council.
Council officials recently ruled out the prospect of temporarily relocat- ing the taxi rank in Parnell street to another site in Ennis.
The council has however agreed to open 30 parking spaces in Waterpark house on Saturdays.
Meanwhile, planning restrictions mean it is unlikely that the former site of Western Garages on the Mill road would be made available for parking.