Parking time is to be increased in Hillsborough

Roads Service have carried out a survey and agreed to increase the parking times in the village from one hour to two hours.

The Traffic Manager from the Eastern Division of Roads Service, Graeme Salmon, wrote to Lisburn City Council to advise them of the change.

Seeking comments from the councillors on the matter, he explained: “The current limited waiting is one hour and no return within one hour in the areas of Main Street, Lisburn Street and Ballynahinch Street.

“We would propose to increase the limited waiting time to two hours with no return within one hour.”

Speaking at a recent meeting of Lisburn City Council’s Planning Committee, when the increase was announced, the Chairman of the committee, Councillor Uel Mackin, said: “One hour doesn’t give you much time for a cup of coffee, never mind a meal or a hair cut.

“I know this will be welcomed by traders in the village,” he added.

Downshire Councillor Luke Poots also welcomed the decision by Roads Service.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Poots said: “This issue had been raised with me by some local traders in Hillsborough and I know it will be welcomed by both traders and shoppers.

“The increase to two hours will encourage more people to visit Hillsborough and to shop for longer once they are there.

“I also think it will improve trade in the village as people will stay longer and shop for more than just one thing at a time,” he added.