Confusion over parking spaces

Last week the 'MAIL' was provided with figures from the council that showed an increase in the total number of parking bays following the completion of the public realm works.

The figures show that there will be 62 parking bays, compared with the 50 there was before the work began.

The number of loading bays, bus stops and disabled bays are also set to increase.

There has been a lot of head scratching over the past week as many felt the number of spaces was actually being cut - indeed the 'MAIL' had previously reported on concerns over the proposed cuts.

Gerard Cafolla said he was 'surprised' to hear of the extra spaces.

He said: "In all the literature I have received about these works there was never any talk of an increase in car parking spaces.

"There was going to be a reduction, we were told 39 would stay - I am mystified as to where they have got these extra spaces from."

Anne Janowiak of Models and More said she couldn't visualise the new spaces.

She said: "Lurgan is in desperate need of its car parking spaces and if there are more when it is finished then great.

"I have been told there will be parallel parking in the central area, but I can't visualise it or how there will be more. But I suppose we can only wait and see how it will turn out."

She added: "One thing that really needs to be improved is signage on how to get to the parking spaces. Those who are not from the town do not know how to get to the car parks."