A large group of angry residents from the Ardilaun Road area of Newcastle have appealed for traffic calming measures to combat the huge influx of student parking in the area.

The residents met with local councillors including Billy Cameron and John Connolly this week and demanded some form of traffic management measures as well as 'Children at Play' signs to make the area safe from excess speed along the main thoroughfare of Ardilaun.

"In recent times, because of its close proximity to NUIG, its large turning bays and laneway leading to the Quincentennial Junction, this quiet but sizeable estate has become flooded with mainly student vehicles. The turning bays and main road being the favourite points where students abandon their cars, with scant regard for residents who sometimes cannot exit their own driveways.

"We met the residents on site and what I saw did not come as any to surprise to me. In fact, I would go so far as to say that we picked a quiet day. I have been observing the area for some time now and Wednesdays and Thursdays are horrific. What students don't realise is that this is a diverse community of young, old and disabled people who need to use the area they live in and live ordinary lives which entails having deliveries of coal, oil etc. and sometimes, god forbid, need an emergency vehicle, such as an ambulance or fire brigade," said Cllr Cameron.

Following the meeting, plans for a map of designated parking areas were decided upon by residents while councillors vowed to take action in the interim.

"On the day, many options were discussed. It was finally decided to have maps drawn up which would come back before the residents for final approval. In the meantime, I have tabled a motion to Galway City Council to provide 'Children At Play' signs and some form of traffic calming along the main artery in consultation with the residents," Cllr Cameron concluded.

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