Westport councillors win battle over parking charges

MAYO County Council is not going to proceed with a controversial plan to introduce parking charges in the town of Westport.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the West Mayo Municipal District today following a proposal by Councillor Brendan Mulroy and jointly seconded by Councillor Tereasa McGuire and Councillor Christy Hyland.

However, the general municipal allocation (GMA) to local community groups has been cut from €450,000 to €230,000 pending further negotiations.

Speaking to The Connaught Telegraph this evening, Councillor Mulroy said the three Westport-based councillors, with the backing of Belmullet Sinn Féin Councillor Teresa Whelan, had achieved a major victory.

“There is more talking to be done but Westport parking charges have been voted off the table. That's the bottom line,” he added.

It is likely, however, that the council will return with a fresh proposal after next year's local elections.