Potential public use of Moate loading bays raised

Discussions will take place between Westmeath County Council and management of SuperValu and Supermac's in Moate with a view to public use of loading bays adjacent to both businesses.

With public car parking spaces an "ongoing issue" in Moate Cllr Tom Farrell suggested that the loading bays at Buckley's SuperValu and Supermac's be used after 9am daily to facilitate shoppers.

"There would be a major benefit if shoppers were able to use the loading bay spaces outside of the times specified for deliveries to both businesses. The spaces are located in the busiest part of the main street," Cllr Farrell said.

Cllr John Dolan said that this was a "reasonable request" if it could be done.

"We are not making good use of the street if the loading bays can't be used by the public at certain times," Cllr Dolan said.

Agreeing, Cllr Vinny McCormack said that loading bays "remained unoccupied" for most of the day.

Acknowledging the issue, District Engineer Willie Ryan said the use of the loading bays would allow parking for four vehicles during the day.

"The demand for parking in the general area is significantly higher than the spaces available and unfortunately we are not served well in this regard. The council would welcome private investment by adjacent businesses to provide off street customer car parking which would in turn address the members' concern. However, as a starting point we will speak with the owners of both SuperValu and Supermac's and get their views," Mr Ryan said.