A prime site in Letterkenny could be turned into a bus hub to ease traffic problems caused by a lack of bus parking – that’s the suggestion being put forward by local councillor Kevin Bradley.
Cllr Bradley has called on Donegal County Council to consider buying the vacant Gleneany House and Thompson’s Yard at the Station Roundabout in order to create a new bus parking area. The site has been described as the ‘perfect location’ for a bus hub to congestion in the area.
At present, all private bus companies and Local Link services must carry out pick-ups and drop-offs at a small stop near Mr Chippy. But a lack of space often leads to a number of buses queuing at this stop at key times in the morning and evenings. The lack of drop-off bays is also a cause for concern.
Local Link Buses at the bus stop outside Mr Chippy’s in Letterkenny. Photo Brian McDaid.
Cllr Kevin Bradley is suggesting that Thompson’s yard, located behind Gleneany House, would be a great location for a new hub. The site has recently become available, he said, and the family that owns it would be “happy to offload it to the council”.
“The site has great access and is in a great location. It’s adjoining the street, and with the new pedestrian crossing coming to the Pearse Road you’re in the middle of the town in a matter of minutes,” Cllr Bradley said.
He added that Gleneany House would not need to be demolished as part of the plan, as there is ample space for buses to drive behind the building.
Cllr Bradley will raise the motion at a meeting of the Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District next week.
He added: “The congestion at Mr Chippy is unbelievable in the mornings and it’s only a matter of time somebody is going to be hurt there.”
