Efforts are under way to find a long-term solution to mounting parking problems at Newry Train Station, as increased passenger numbers continue to put pressure on the limited spaces available.
Sinn Féin MP for Newry and Armagh, Dáire Hughes, said he has raised the issue directly with Translink after a surge in rail users left many commuters with “little choice” but to park along the roadside — causing disruption for pedestrians, buses and other road users.
“The recent improvement to train services and the significant increase in people taking the train is very welcome,” he said.
“Investment in local public transport has led to greater use and this is good news for commuters, the environment, and the local economy.
“However, this increase has exacerbated the issues of parking at Newry Train Station. With limited spaces available, many people using the train are left with little choice but to park along the roadside which can cause problems for pedestrians, buses and other road users.”
Mr Hughes said police had recently placed leaflets on cars over parking concerns, a move which “underlines the need for a better, long-term fix”.
“Translink is currently working on solutions to address this issue and I will continue working with them to ensure that commuters travelling via train are not disrupted,” he added.
He pointed to Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins’ new legislation banning double parking, blocking dropped kerbs and pavement parking as an important step in improving safety across the north. However, he stressed that specific action was needed at Newry Train Station itself.
“Sinn Féin will continue to work with Translink and other partners to explore options for additional parking on site,” he said.
“This is clearly needed to ease pressure on those who take the train and for local residents.”
SDLP MLA Justin McNulty, who said the station was “a victim of its own success”, also raised concerns after speaking directly with commuters, station staff and a Translink official on Friday.
“Lack of capacity means that people have had no alternative but to park on the roadside outside the station, with some drives blocked and passengers forced to walk up the road to get into the station,” he said.
“This is not an easy fix, but I have written to the Minister asking her to look into implementing parking solutions at the train station.”
Both representatives say they will continue pushing for a workable, long-term solution to support growing rail demand and ensure safe, convenient access to Newry Train Station.
