Keena calls for solution to parking issue in Roslevin Lawns

A local councillor has called on the Athlone-Moate Municipal District to provide a solution to the persistent congested parking issue in Roslevin Lawn.

Cllr Frankie Keena called on the district executive to "engage with the Roslevin Lawn Residents Association" and "identify a solution to problem created by members of the public who park in the Athlone estate when taking the train to Dublin".

"As we are aware car parking spaces are limited at the bus and train stations but that doesn't justify people parking their cars in Roslevin Lawn which is within walking distance of the location," Cllr Keena said.

The councillor said he had received numerous representations from residents in the estate whose access to their properties was blocked by such vehicles.

"This issue needs to be addressed and there is also a similar situation happening to the residents of John Paul Park and Newtown Terrace," Cllr Keena added.

Cllr Keena stated that residents did not want to see pay parking installed in Roslevin Lawn, but suggested maybe a "two to three hour parking time limit implemented".

Cllr John Dolan explained that it was extremely difficult to "navigate a car" through Roslevin Lawn at times.

"What happens when an emergency vehicle needs to access a property there? Maybe we should look at sending our traffic warden into this estate and issue parking fines. That might help the situation," Cllr Dolan added.

Cllr Aengus O'Rourke described the parking problem as a "difficult nut to crack", adding that drivers were "abusing the situation".

He suggested that the placing of parking prohibited signage in the estate could prove to be a deterrent to those who regularly park in Roslevin Lawn.

District Manager Annie Blessington said she would liaise with the traffic warden to "target the area for a period of time" and issue fines where necessary.

She also confirmed that the district was happy to engage with the Roslevin Lawn Residents Association "to better understand the extent and nature of the parking concerns raised".