SDLP Newry City Councillors Killian Feehan and Doire Finn have hit out at plans by Council to remove free parking from North Street.
The SDLP team have strongly challenged the proposal, saying they are at a complete loss to understand why Council would make it more difficult for workers and shoppers in Newry to access the city centre.
The SDLP will be bringing their own proposals before July’s Council Meeting, calling for the retention of all free parking spaces in Newry and the introduction of one hour free on-street parking across the city.
Councillor Killian Feehan said: “This is a bad move from the Council. Workers and shoppers in Newry have a hard enough time accessing parking, shops, and amenities at present, and bringing in parking charges at North Street has provoked a sense of anger in the community.
“My SDLP colleagues and I want to make it as easy as possible for people to get to their work and do their bits and pieces about the town without worrying about parking tickets. That’s why we’re bringing forward common sense ideas for an hour free on-street parking, in addition to the retention of all existing free parking spaces.
Councillor Doire Finn said: “The SDLP is listening to workers and business owners in Newry who have reacted angrily to the proposals to strip away free parking in the city centre.
“Town centres across the North are under extreme pressure and we believe that Councillors have a duty to position ourselves very firmly on the side of workers, local people, and local businesses.
“That is what our proposal aims at doing. Making life easier for those living, working, shopping, and socialising in Newry. Our proposals are guided by common sense, and I trust we will have the support of all parties at July’s Council Meeting. “
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