Additional parking being pursued for west Mayo town

THE provision of additional parking in Newport is being examined.

As three separate rejuvenation projects for the town were approved, work continues on a greenway and car park project, which is still at design and site purchase stage.

The project plans approved by councillors will see the public realm on Main Street and Medlicott Street improved, while an enterprise centre will be also be developed in the town.

Stating the proposals were a 'welcome development', the cathaoirleach of the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, Councillor Brendan Mulroy, said there were concerns about parking and they needed to keep looking for additional spaces into the future.

He thanked all who had made submissions and the council officials who had taken them on board, and discussed the plans with the business community.

Councillor Peter Flynn felt they had reached a solution that works, saying they needed a plan that ensures Newport remains a thriving trading town.

It wasn't perfect and traders would prefer more parking. It was all about trade and tourism and getting the balance.

They now needed to progress the fourth planning application for parking and safe access to the greenway.

There were also two tunnels on the Westport side of town, he said, that should be looked at in terms of safety and as an attraction. They were 'magnificent' structures that are hidden away.

Councillor Christy Hyland said Newport has really begun to thrive and as its tourism product is developed it will improve more, with jobs and opportunities for people.

Councillor Paul McNamara agreed it was important that parking is addressed in the coming months.

Newport, he commented, had been starved of funding and it was great to see a plan to lift the town.

Councillor Gerry Coyle agreed it had been neglected, as had his town of Belmullet. He hadn't seen the council doing a plan for there or other gateways to Erris, like Bangor.

A plan is needed for Erris, he stated.

Both he and Councillor Sean Carey requested an update on funding awarded when Belmullet was named a tourist destination town and planned works under that project.