Lack of parking hitting Delvin businesses hard, says local election candidate

Westmeath County Council has "to address the urgent need for additional parking facilities in the village of Delvin", according to a local election candidate.

Sinn Fein's David Jones, who is also the chair of the Delvin Amenity Development Group, says that given the large volume of traffic that passes through the village daily, the number of parking spaces is inadequate and local businesses are beginning to suffer.

He says that Delvin Amenity Group wants a "positive and proactive response" from the council.

"As the village continues to grow due in no small part to its strategic location at the meeting point of two national roads, the N51 and N52, the lack of parking remains a critical issue. The weekly average traffic count stands at a staggering 44,498 vehicles, based on the most recent seven-day data ending February 9, which highlights the sheer volume of traffic passing through the village.

"Despite ongoing efforts and proposals to identify a suitable site for additional parking, progress has been slow, mostly because no funding is readily available to progress these plans. Delvin is top heavy with six businesses at the Mullingar end of the village and they are suffering due to the lack of parking facilities. There is a major risk that the economic growth of our village cannot expand because of the lack of parking.

"The proposed site for new parking facilities is ideally located on the approach from the Mullingar road, a prime position that would provide significant relief to the current parking congestion. This development is not only vital for local businesses but would also enhance the visitor experience, potentially including tour bus parking and charging points for electric vehicles, among other amenities."

Mr Jones said that he is hopeful that Westmeath County Council will collaborate further with the Delvin Amenity Development Group to explore and develop potential parking sites at this end of town.

" It's about future-proofing our village infrastructure and ensuring that Delvin remains a welcoming and accessible place for everyone.

"Many pensioners come in to Delvin mainly on a Friday to collect their pension from the local post office. They don’t only come from Delvin but also neighbouring towns. It is huge concern when they can’t get parking or even when they are parked a lorry or vehicle comes and takes the mirror of their car due to how close to the road the parking spaces are. Cars are being damaged in this location regularly

"The Delvin Amenity Development Group is committed to continuing to work with the council and all stakeholders to find a timely and effective solution to the parking challenges facing the village. The group awaits a positive and proactive response from the Westmeath County Council to ensure that Delvin can continue to grow."