Workers’ anger over changes to Abbey Square car park
EMPLOYEES from businesses around Enniscorthy have been at their wits end in recent weeks, following the introduction of new parking charges in the Abbey Square car park. While previously, those working in the town were able to avail of the option of paying €2 to park there for the day, signs were recently erected and the metres recently changed to only allow parking for two hours at a time for a cost of €2.
The changes appeared to happen overnight, sparking great frustration for the workers who now end up trying to get into town early so that they can avail of one of the spaces on the quay, designated as being €2 for the day.
With these spaces filling up fast, motorists are left with a dilemma as to where to park with the car park opposite the clinic also priced at €2 with a maximum stay of two hours.
Meanwhile, the Abbey Square car park has been all but empty since the changes were made.
Cllr John O’Rourke says that there have been some problems since the introduction of new parking by-laws.
‘I think the problem is that decisions have been made without teasing things out with residents, workers and everyone involved,’ he said.
‘In relation to businesses, I think there are tickets available that you can purchase on a yearly basis that will entitle you to park in the car parks. I understand the car park opposite the clinic was €2 for the day, but nobody was parking there.’
However, one possible reason for this is that the Abbey Square car park would have been on a €2 daily rate at the same time, with motorists choosing to park there, closer to town, instead.
Another area which Cllr O’Rourke says is experiencing issues is John Street.
‘Ever since John Street was made pay parking, residents are having a problem getting spaces outside of their house,’ he said.
‘Many of these residents are elderly and their family and carers need to be able to have access.’
‘Again, it appears that there was no consultation before these changes were made.’