'Dangerous' walks to cars spark safety fears in Longford Town amid calls for new car park

Concerns over public safety in Longford Town have sparked calls for the opening of a new all-day public car park, following reports of people feeling unsafe walking to their vehicles.

Leas Cathaoirleach for the Longford Municipal District, Kevin Hussey, tabled a motion at the March meeting calling on the council to "examine and report on the feasibility of developing the lands adjacent to the Council buildings as an all-day public car park, and potential benefits to town centre businesses, workers, and permit holders."

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Cllr Hussey said he brought the motion forward after being contacted recently by a woman who works in the local shopping centre.

According to Cllr Hussey, she told him that she had recently parked in the all-day car park and, after finishing work one evening, was followed to her car.

He explained that although she managed to get into her vehicle and drive away safely, the incident left her feeling anxious.

As a result, she no longer feels comfortable walking to her car, describing the journey as “dangerous.” Cllr Hussey also noted that a number of other workers have shared similar concerns.

Fianna Fáil councillor Martin Monaghan said that the “safety of people” is of the utmost importance, supporting Cllr Hussey’s proposal. He added that the suggested location would provide a “safe car park” due to the constant movement of people in the area.

He also noted that the proposed site “serves no purpose at the minute” and could become a “good source of revenue” for the local authority.

Cllr Seamus Butler highlighted the need for additional parking spaces in the town, stating that when he attends meetings, “there are no spots in the car parks.”

He added that the local workforce would benefit from the creation of a new all-day car park, noting that the council already owns the land for the proposed site.

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In a written reply, read at the meeting by Director of Services John Brannigan, it was stated: “Funding will need to be sourced for this project. In addition to this, a review of the parking bye-laws and all-day parking permits would need to be completed.”

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Brannigan added that if the local authority is going to “do something, it needs to be done up to standard.” He reiterated the need to secure permits and review parking bye-laws, adding that “the first step is to find funding.”