HAVE YOUR SAY: Meeting on one-way this evening

AS the deadline for submissions on the one-way system on Athlone's Church Street looms close, local traders have organised a meeting for this evening, amid their fears that if the proposal gets the go ahead it will result in the closure of shops.

The Managing Director of Burgess retail store Rosie Boles fears that if the current proposal gets the green light it will encourage shoppers to go elsewhere and as a result businesses could face closures, leading to job losses.

The plans for the €3 million rejuvenation of the street are currently on public display. As part of the proposal for the Church Street Enhancement Works, the traffic flow will change from the current two-way system to a one-way westbound flow along Church Street.

The meeting, organised by the traders, will take place this evening in the Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone, starting at 6pm. People are encouraged to attend and to lodge submissions prior to the deadline.

The plans are currently on display at Athlone Civic Centre and on the Westmeath County Council website, www.westmeathcoco.ie.

Submissions can be lodged up to 4pm on Wednesday, February 1, 2017.

For full coverage, see this week's Westmeath Independent, out now.