A new proposal put forward by west ward councillors at a meeting with HSE representatives last night may prove the solution to University College Hospital's long running parking crisis.

A local source told the Galway Independent that the new proposed land swap would enable the hospital to build a planned multi-storey car park as well as a new residential park in Shantalla.

UHG representatives had previously proposed a five-year lease agreement for the council owned site but this plan was rejected by councillors who branded the HSE "arrogant" and "un co-operative" throughout negotiations.

In view of concerns about losing part of the Shantalla Neighbourhood Park, the councillors then set out to negotiate a new deal, which was put to the hospital at a meeting last night. The new agreement would involve a 1.063 hectare land swap with the hospital gaining the required site for car parking. Shantalla residents would equally benefit from the swap, with a new site adjacent to Shantalla Community Centre being taken over by the council.

Cllr Billy Cameron said he optimistic that the new arrangement would be agreed by both parties and would bring great benefits to the Shantalla community.

"The HSE will meet and discuss the viability and come back to us on it. We have spoke to residents in Shantalla and everybody is looking favourably on the plan. The hospital can have its high-rise car park and it also give them lots of options, while RAPID funding should allow the construction of a new recreational park for Shantalla in addition to their existing football pitch. This plan would alleviate a lot of problems so the ball in their court now," he said.

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