Letterkenny residents in plea to GAA fans after parking problems in estate

Residents of a Letterkenny estate have appealed to GAA fans to be more considerate of residents when parking for matches at O’Donnell Park.

People living in the Ballymacool area were left angry and frustrated at the weekend as vehicles were ‘abandoned’ in the estate.

Last year, Donegal Gardai issued a statement warning fans that fixed charge penalty notices would be issued where any parking offences were detected.

However, at the weekend, some homeowners in Ballymacool were unable to access or leave their property after having their driveways blocked while mothers had to walk prams in the middle of the road as footpaths were obstructed.

Members of the Ballymacool Residents Association say they have been liaising with the St Eunan’s GAA club and An Garda Siochana about the situation ahead of another big weekend at O’Donnell Park.

“Both have given us assurances that, ahead of the intermediate and senior finals, they will do what they can to prevent the same situation that we faced at the weekend from happening again,” a spokesperson told Donegal Live.

This weekend sees double headers at O’Donnell Park on both Saturday and Sunday and, with Sean MacCumhaill Park currently out of action due to upgrade works, the Letterkenny venue is in prime position to be chosen as the host for this year's Senior Football Championship final.

On Sunday, Naomh Columba face Malin at 4pm in the Intermediate Football Championship final with Buncrana and Burt going head-to-head in the Intermediate Reserve decider at 2pm.

On Saturday, Glenfin and Termon meet in the senior ladies final at 4.30pm with Burt and Termon Reserves playing in the Junior B Shield final beforehand at 2.30pm.

O’Donnell Park hosted the two Senior Football Championship semi-finals on the weekend past, drawing big crowds on both days.

A spokesperson said: “We also appeal to all the clubs involved in the big games to ask their supporters not to park in Ballymacool estate.

“Although the situation improved slightly for last Sunday's game, over the weekend, we had families unable to access or leave their homes due to driveways being blocked. 

“We had mothers having to walk prams in the middle of the road because footpaths were blocked.  We had people unable to get out or into the estate with room being left for only one car at a time to either enter or leave the estate.

“We had cars parked all along the thoroughfare, forcing motorists onto the wrong side of the road, putting residents at increased risk of accident. 

“People should be mindful of those of us who live here and consider where they decide to abandon their vehicles.”

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In a statement in September 2024, local gardai warned people to: “Only park where it is legal and safe to do so. The area around the park is mainly residential with no parking. 

"Do not park on footpaths at Ballymacool estate, on footpaths along the main road or park in a manner that would block access for emergency services.”