A bit rushed but street plan could be good
IT has been a debate that shows no sign of abating - the temporary introduction of a Covid-19 mobility plan f or Sligo. Several of the city’s streets have been widened overnight with the introduction of bollards to make them larger and more safer for pedestrians to pass.
Some businesses haven’t warmed to the idea with lack of parking space and loading bays top of their list of grievances.
The apparent loss of disabled bays is another bone of contention for many.
Another significant part of the plan, which is backed by Sligo County Council and Sligo BID, is the closing of O’Connell Street to traffic even when the works are completed some time next month.
There’s no doubting that the erection of the bollards and new signage was carried out with a speed not seen before and it caught many unawares.
And, that’s where things might have been handled better. Some business owners say they were never consulted and are outright against the plan saying it will kill off businesses that are trying to find their feet again after weeks of closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The mobility plan envisages a one way system for pedestrians and the introduction of ‘click and collect’ car parking spaces.
There was always likely to be opposition to the plan - changes are never easy especially after the year we are currently experiencing.
There is merit in the plan and there are aspects of it I like already, especially in areas of the city which see nothing but illegal parking all day.
For example, Stephen Street. Drivers feel they can park where they like and it’s usually on double yellow lines and footpaths. Great to now see bollards outside one of the banks where drivers constantly parked across the pedestrian crossing with abandon. The traffic wardens were always active in the street but no amount of tickets could deter what are the selfish and lazy habits of many drivers.
There are still too many drivers who feel they can park outside the shop they want to go into and it’s usually on the footpath. Such thinking is outdated. It’s time our city centre was far more pedestrian friendly like the many beautiful cities of Europe.
Let’s give this mobility plan a chance and start walking around our lovely city instead of constantly driving everywhere.