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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Orlaith Clinton

Divis and Black Mountain car parks 'beyond capacity' says National Trust

The National Trust has appealed for the public to exercise close to home as hundreds have taken to the Black Mountain over the weekend.

Cars were parked on either sides of the Divis Road on Saturday and traffic congestion poured onto nearby streets blocking residents into their driveways.

Yesterday, the Divis Road was closed by police to "aid flow of traffic".

Sergeant Tew told Belfast Live: "We received two reports yesterday, Saturday, 9 January in relation to parked vehicles causing traffic obstruction on Divis Road, Belfast.

Stock Image (Picture Matt Mackey / Press Eye.)

"Our officers responded on two occasions and attended the area to alleviate traffic congestion. On one occasion the road was temporarily closed to help facilitate the flow of traffic.

"Discussions are ongoing with relevant partner agencies in relation to this matter.

"In the meantime, we would appeal to motorists visiting the area to please park safely and responsibly, and to show consideration for others."

A spokesperson for the National Trust said they are experiencing equally high numbers of visitors on Sunday.

"Please do not travel to Divis and the Black Mountain today," they said.

"We are experiencing exceptionally high numbers of visitors and the car parks are beyond capacity. Parking on the roadside results in dangerous traffic congestion, preventing access for emergency services and causing much distress to the local community.

"The upper and lower car parks remain open to accommodate local walkers, but the café will be closed. We ask that visitors follow government guidance and exercise close to home."

Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey says he has contacted the Department for Infrastructure on the reoccurring issue.

He said: "Double yellow lines would sort this at a very low cost in the meantime until a more permanent solution is found. I’ve emailed the Minister's Department requesting this."

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