By Dan Walsh at Wexford County Council meeting
Enniscorthy-based Independent Cllr Jackser Owens raised concerns at Monday’s Wexford County Council’s monthly meeting about losing around 50 parking spaces at Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, after the meter was removed and the lease ended.
Speaking remotely, Cllr Owens claimed he had just heard that the Council was not renewing the lease on the privately-owned car park, known locally as the Clinic Car Park. “This is a massive blow to Enniscorthy,” said Cllr Owens, who added; “Losing 50 spaces in such a central location will have a serious impact, especially for local businesses and residents who rely on this facility.”
He was frustrated that Enniscorthy District Council members were not informed in advance, learning only through the property owner. “I want to make it absolutely clear that the closure is not the fault of the property owner. They’ve been very upfront and transparent, and it’s important the public knows this.”
Cllr Owens noted that the parking meter on the site had been removed, and the Council had not renewed the lease.
In reply to Cllr Owens’, Eamonn Hore, Deputy Chief Executive said there were 45 car parking spaces at the Clinic Car Park on Mill Park Road and usage was coming in at 20% and it was losing serious money; €18,000 in 2022, €20,000 in 2023 and €20,000 in the first half of 2024. “Car spaces on The Promenade are never full. There is always spare capacity,” added Mr. Hore.
“Somebody took down the ticket machine. “It has been taken away,” said Cllr Owens, urging the Council to compensate for the lost parking spaces in the town.
Cllr Aidan Browne announced that the issue will be discussed and decided on at next Tuesday’s Enniscorthy Municipal District Council meeting!
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