Calls have been made for a pilot ‘parklet’ scheme – where a parking space can be temporarily turned into an outdoor area to help local businesses like cafes with social distancing – to be rolled out in Newry.
The Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins said a new pilot had started in Belfast this week and she encouraged Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon to work with councils to see about rolling this initiative out elsewhere.
“In my own area in Newry I know of some businesses who have already expressed their interest in such a scheme and local businesses outside of Belfast should be able to partake in this pilot as well,” said the Sinn Fein representative.
“Of course, in order for such schemes to truly work requires proper consultation and engagement with local businesses and all relevant stakeholders.
“It’s vital that we help our local towns and businesses come out of Covid-19 on a strong footing and, if successful, parklets could be a big boost to Newry once it is safe to go out to cafes and restaurants once more.”
