Write a commentA recent engagement event by Newry BID confirmed to them that parking as the number one issue for businesses in Newry. Over 100 BID members attended the event. This week again Newry BID facilitated a meeting with Newry, Mourne and Down Council on their long term “Off Street” parking strategy.
A spokesperson commented "Whilst we believe that “On Street” (Department for Infrastructure) enforcement is the major issue for traders there are also concerns with “Off Street” (Car Parks) parking. The recent pressure on the BIDs FREE Car Park for members at North Street confirms this."
A short online survey is available at WWW.SURVEYMONKEY.CO.UK and everyone who uses car parking facilities in Newry are asked to submit their thoughts.
Newry has 6 of the 11 pay car parks in the Council district from Cullaville to Saintfield meaning that Newry is effectively subsidising all other car parks in the Council District.
Newry is one of 3 Central Parking Zones in NI (with Belfast & Lisburn) which means parking is heavily enforced 'on-street'.
The BID spokesperson also explained that some daily bus commuters to Dublin and Belfast are also effectively creating quasi park and rides in the centre of Newry and preventing the re-use of spaces for shoppers and visitors.
Newry BID are commissioning an independent professional report to submit to the consultation process.
