Kells set to slash parking charges

Shoppers in Kells will see parking charges slashed after Easter as councillors and traders make a bid to attract further business to the town.
Motorists will get the first 15 minutes of parking free and the minimum charge has been cut from 50c to 20c for 20 minutes parking.
The hourly rate will plummet from 90c to 50c, in what has been described as a major opportunity for retailers in the town to maximise business.
However those parking illegally will have to beware - as the council promises stricter enforcement of parking restrictions, particularly in problem areas and black spots in the town.
Kells Municipal District Council approved the new charges at its monthly meeting on Monday and the new charges will come into operation after Easter.
The new parking charges will operate for a three month trial period and if successful they will be extended full time,
Meath County council’s Kevin Stewart said; “Along with the recent rates incentive for small businesses, this is another good news story for the business community in Kells. Hopefully, the reduced parking fees will encourage people from the area to shop local and stay longer in the town.”
Cllr Drew said the changes followed meetings between the County Manager, Kells Municipal councillors, local traders and the Kells Chamber, at which a number of options to reduce parking charges in Kells were presented.