LOADING bays in Downpatrick town centre could soon be available for shoppers to park in at weekends.
The idea was suggested several months ago by Mr. Tom Gibney, one of the town’s longest serving businessmen, who argued the move would provide a boost for local businesses.
His suggestion secured the support of his fellow traders and Down Council and it emerged this week that Stormont Minister Danny Kennedy has now asked his officials to investigate making the town’s loading bays available for short term parking at weekends only.
Loading bays in Newcastle are used by shoppers on Saturdays and Sundays and Downpatrick could be the next district town where this happens.
In a letter to local politicians, Mr. Kennedy’s private secretary said while officials have been asked to look at allowing dedicated loading bays to be used for parking in Downpatrick, any potential changes would be subject to a formal legislative process, warning objections to such a move could be lodged.
The Stormont official said new road markings would also be required which could make the current situation more confusing for the public.
Mr. Kennedy’s secretary also confirmed roads officials have been asked to contact traders in Downpatrick to seek their views about loading bays being used for weekend parking, with politicians provided with an update once initial consultations have been completed.
Mr. Gibney said very few businesses receive deliveries on a Saturday. He believes that allowing loading bays in Market Street and St. Patrick’s Avenue to be used for an hour by shoppers would provide a major boost for businesses.
“Three cars could park in each of the loading bays which would mean nine vehicles every hour. Over the course of the day, this would provide over 70 additional parking spaces in the town centre. Allowing shoppers to park in the loading bays for a maximum of one hour would encourage them to shop in Downpatrick,” he added.
Councillor Dermot Curran believes it’s only a matter of time before shoppers will be allowed to park in loading bays in Downpatrick on a Saturday which is traditionally the busiest day of the year for the town’s business community.
“The fact loading bays are used by shoppers in Newcastle at weekends should mean that no barriers will be placed in the way of this happening in Downpatrick,” he said.
Councillor Curran added: “Mr. Gibney deserves praise for his suggestion and I’m delighted Mr. Kennedy sees the logic and reasoning behind it. We must continue to do all we can to support our local businesses which form the backbone of our economy.”
A Roads Service spokeswoman confirmed that loading bays in Newcastle are used for public parking at weekends, with the move agreed after consultation with the town’s traders.
She said the Roads Service is currently assessing the feasibility of making loading bays available for parking at weekends in Downpatrick, with officials planning to consult shortly with traders.