McClure steps up campaign for multi-storey car park

Alderman James McClure says there is increasing frustration among business people and shoppers over inadequate car parking in Coleraine during busy periods Alderman McClure, who has lobbied for additional car parking spaces for many years, has raised the issue with Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy.

He said: “I have asked the Minister to re-examine the multi storey plan for Abbey Street which was part of the schemes previously planned for either side of the Diamond.

“The decision not to proceed with either scheme at The Lanes and Ramparts means a new approach must be taken at Abbey Street where a multi storey provision is still required.

“Local traders have told me that people relate how they are put off coming into Coleraine town centre at peak times towards the weekend and particularly in the summer because of lack of parking.

“Our visitor numbers increase substantially during July and August and I think we need to be re-examining the Abbey Street car park proposal.”

“Visitors come here and can’t get into the existing car park at Abbey Street. Rather than join a long queue they simply do a U-turn and take their business elsewhere. That negative feedback is not good for the image of the town and bad for business.”