Major trader protest over public realm works in Ballaghaderreen

A major protest was held this morning, Monday, by traders in Ballaghaderreen over fears that the public realm works being carried out in the town will have a major impact on their businesses.

Members of the business community, holding placards, “SOS. Save our Square and Town” and "Hands off our carpark spaces", held the demonstration in The Square at 7.a.m..

There are fears that the loss of more than 70 car-parking spaces under the public realm scheme will have a detrimental impact on local trade.

There are also concerns about the changes already taking place to the layout of the town. Local businesses want the works stopped until the plans are amended.

“We are here to protect our businesses and protect our livelihoods. Without car spaces, we have no business, it is as simple as that. There are 72 car-spaces being removed by Roscommon County Council,” said local businessman Michael Mulligan.

“The people who have built this town are forgotten about. There’s been absolutely no consultation with the council or the planners, despite what is being said,” he said.

The business community vow to hold daily demonstrations every morning at 7 a.m. until the redevelopment plans are amended. 

“We’ll be here as long as it takes,” said Mr Mulligan.

Council officials did visit the town recently to discuss local concerns but traders are still seeking a significant revision of the redevelopment plans, which were approved by the local authority.