Kells hopes free parking will give town a Christmas lift

Kells is hoping for a major business boost this Christmas with free on-street parking in the town each day from 17th to 24th December, from 11am. There are also proposals for free off-street parking over the same period from 9am each day. At Monday night's meeting of the council, officials detailed plans for the free parking initiative and indicated that highly visible signage would be erected on the approach roads to the town and the initiative would be promoted in various media outlets. They are writing to local businesses, including posters for them to display in their premises, promoting the free parking. The initiative is the result of a budget decision made last year by members of the town council. The cathaoirleach of the council, Cllr Conor Ferguson, said it was time everybody put their shoulders to the wheel. “I am urging the people of Kells to shop in Kells. Nobody will help us, but ourselves,†he said. Cllr Bryan Reilly said it had been a wise decision to budget for free parking last year. He said the fightback had to start in Kells itself and he urged everybody to get involved in promoting and supporting business in Kells this Christmas. Cllr Brian Curran said what was needed was the community spirit that was in Kells during the Special Olympics. “We need to bring back a sense of ownership and community and for people to support the local community and local businesses. It is sad to see the figures for those who go across the border to shop,†he said. Cllr Brian Collins suggested extending the free parking to 29th December, as it was not a period where much revenue would be generated anyway. Cllr Frankie Lynch said that business was being lost because some shops didn't open until 9.30am or 9.45am in the mornings and people were going elsewhere. Cllr Tommy Grimes urged Kells people to shop in Kells and said it would have to start in the council chamber. Cllr Sarah Reilly complimented the council officials on the initiative and the eye-catching posters. She supported Cllr Collins's request to extend the free parking to 29th December.