Parking shortages ‘negatively impacting’ Downings - Donegal News

A LACK of parking is “negatively impacting” one of Donegal’s most popular seaside towns, it has been claimed.

Downings was described as “a victim of its own success” at a council meeting on Tuesday, with growing numbers of visitors during the summer months highlighting the shortage of spaces.

Independent councillor Declan Meehan raised the issue at the Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District (MD) meeting.

He asked: “That this Council will urgently commence a process to identify and obtain land for the development of a public car park in Na Dúnaibh, beginning with a publicly advertised expression of interest process.”

Cllr Meehan reminded councillors of the “sheer congestion” in Downings over the summer.

“There’s serious issues in the town itself in relation to the lack of parking,” he said. “Which is only going to get worse when the work on the public amenities commences, hopefully at some point next year at the entrance to the beach.

“The beach itself often acts as a car park, which in my opinion is an unsustainable long-term solution for the issue of lack of parking.”

Cllr Meehan warned of obstruction to properties by cars double-parking and blocking the Mulroy Coast Guard and other emergency services.

He said it is “imperative” that the council work with the newly-formed Town Team in Downings to find solutions.

“Downings is a victim of its own success,” continued Cllr Meehan. “It is an incredibly popular seaside town. There are beautiful beaches, great amenities, excellent local businesses and they give brilliant employment for the people living locally.”

The motion was seconded by 100% Redress councillor Tomás Seán Devine.

In a written response from council officials, Cllr Meehan was informed: “It is recognised that there is a need for additional car parking provision in Na Dúnaibh. However, there is currently no funding available for the construction of a car park in the area.

“The Roads and Transportation Section is not in a position to acquire land for the development of a car park until a suitable funding source has been identified. The Roads Section will liaise with other Directorates within Donegal County Council to explore any potential funding opportunities that may become available.”

Cllr Meehan expressed his disappointment and said the response was “not satisfactory”, warning that the same issues will continue to arise if action is not taken.

“This is not a new problem by any means,” he said. “It is an issue affecting the town for years, if not decades, and it deserves urgency and attention from the roads and transportation section and all the directorates that are relevant.”

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