An MLA says Council needs to consult local residents when events such as the Airshow are being planned.
East Londonderry MLA Maurice Bradley’s call comes after he was contacted by angry residents who described their weekend as ‘hell’. “I think the key issue is that two of the town’s main carparks were closed off, this meant that space was already limited before the huge influx of visitors arrived in the resort,” said Bradley.
“Residents from Ramore Street, Ramore Avenue, Princess Street and Mark Street tell me that they were prisoners in their own homes at the weekend. If they got out of their homes, they could not get back in, due to heavy traffic and lack of parking.
“There were claims from one resident that locals were treated like ‘second class citizens’ with high spec vehicles being allowed to park on double yellow lines all day, whilst another car, owned by a resident, was impounded.”
Bradley went on: “Events, such as the Airshow are vital for our local economy, and it is wonderful to see visitors enjoying our shops, restaurants and local facilities, however as ratepayers of this Borough, residents should always have an input.
“I have been working with residents in this part of Portrush for some time. I am hopeful that the Department for Infrastructure may be able to introduce a Residents’ Only parking scheme when a pilot scheme has been evaluated, but in the meantime, this is an issue that effects people in this area day and daily.
“As we plan ahead to The Open Golf Championships next year, I feel that it is issues like these that Council and organisers need to take on board. As ratepayers of this Borough, residents deserve better, he said.”
