Disability parking spot wanted at Laois credit union and medical centre

A disabled parking bay has been requested for customers of a Laois credit union.

The People First Credit Union is beside two medical practices in Lyster Square in Portlaoise, but the nearest disabled parking spot is "a long way" to walk from the business.

Cllr Marie Tuohy tabled a motion to the November meeting of Portlaoise Municipal District with the request.

She got a positive answer from Laois County Council who say they will install the parking spot.

"This is good news. The nearest one is at the old library. Footfall to the credit union is as much as any of the banks, and there are two GP surgeries there as well. This area is used daily by people with disabliities.

"It would make a meaningful difference, and perhaps it could be done without losing regular parking spot," Cllr Tuohy said.

Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald had seconded the motion noting "it's a long way from the library".

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Cllr Tommy Mulligan described the area as "pretty congested".

"There is a lot of elderly footfall and a lot of elderly people have disability cards," he said.

The parking space will be added in early 2026.