Complaint filed over parking during Westport Marathon

A complaint has been filed to Mayo County Council after the parking of numerous cars in driveways and on green areas caused disruption to residents in local estates.

Photos posted on social media also showed marks left on grassy areas by cars which parked in nearby estates during the Westport Marathon, which drew thousands of people to the west Mayo town.

Residents in Páirc na Coille, the Fairways and along the Golf Course Road, which are located near the race starting point at Westport House, were affected by the event, which took place on Saturday.

At least one resident has made a formal complaint over the matter to Mayo County Council. The resident did not wish to be named or comment when contacted by The Mayo News 

Linda Claxton, Chairperson of the Páirc na Coille Residents’ Association, told The Mayo News that residents experienced delays in entering and exiting the estate due to the volume of cars parked there over the weekend. As cars were parked on both sides of the road, only one car could pass through at any given time.

“It was a disaster to get out of our estate,” said Ms Claxton.

Designated parking zones for full marathon runners were put in place at the Quay School and Westport Woods Hotel.

Those partaking in the half marathon were allocated parking in Gaelscoil na Cruaiche, Westport House, Mayo College of Further Education’s Westport campus, and at Portwest’s warehouse. Those participating in the 10-kilometre run could also park at Gaelscoil na Cruacihe, Westport House and Portwest.

A shuttle bus for competitors ran from Portwest warehouse to the start line every 20 minutes from 7.30 am on the day of the race.

Over 4,000 people took part in the third annual Westport Marathon, which has become one of the largest running events in the west of Ireland.