Following a legislation change which brings St Patrick’s Day into line with other holiday periods, Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins confirmed the news, which relates to on-street parking in CPZs.

The change will apply to Belfast, Newry and Lisburn.

The Minister said that her Department had been working to amend the legislation.

“This will provide greater flexibility for those wanting to either enjoy the festivities or simply to visit one of the cities to socialise or shop on their day off,” said the Minister.

Reminding everyone to continue to park legally and responsibly, the Minister added: “If we all park responsibly, we can ensure we have safer streets, better access for disabled people, support for local businesses and keep our transport system running smoothly.”

The post Boost for high streets as St Patrick’s Day made non-charge day for CPZs first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

The bridge has been restricted to cars and light vehicles since early December, but these restrictions will now be lifted.

A DfI spokesperson said that while the bridge will reopen, the temporary speed limit will remain in place.

“Permanent repair works at Kilrea Bridge have progressed well and are on schedule, allowing us to fully reopen the bridge to all traffic on Wednesday afternoon,” the spokesperson said.

“This marks the completion of the structural stabilisation works and will restore normal access for all road users. The Department is mindful of the impact the traffic restrictions have had on local residents, businesses and commuters and would like to thank them for their patience and cooperation throughout this period.

“While the main structural work is complete and the width and weight restrictions removed, the temporary 40mph speed limit will remain in place for several weeks. This is to facilitate a number of minor construction activities, including masonry repairs, resurfacing, kerbing and improvements to the parapet.

“A temporary barrier will remain on the carriageway for the protection of both workers and road users during these operations.

“As weather conditions have not been suitable for repointing of the southwest wingwall the contractor will return during the summer months to complete this element of the work. Any traffic management measures required for the remaining activities will be of a short duration and carried out during off-peak hours to minimise disruption.”

Further information is available on the dedicated webpage: Kilrea Bridge, B64 Bann Road, Kilrea – Closure | Department for Infrastructure

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The initiative, which is being trialled in Newry and Lisburn over the festive season begins on Saturday 29^th November and will run until 10^th January 2026, giving people up to one hour to return to their cars following the expiry of their paid parking event without fear of receiving a parking ticket.

Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins said she was aware of the challenges facing shop owners and hospitality providers and the need to encourage more people to visit and spend time on the high street.

“Traders want people to be relaxed, they want them to stop for a coffee. They want people to be looking at their window displays and looking at what they have to offer on their shelves, not looking at their watches in a panic to get back to their car,” said Minister Kimmins.

“I have examined all options available to me around flexibility in controlled parking zones to support high street shopping and hospitality, which is why I am pleased to introduce this pilot initiative for Lisburn and Newry over the festive season.

“This trial will help shape future approaches to on-street parking, ensuring that they meet the needs of local communities and businesses.

“Providing an hour’s grace period for parking sessions will give shoppers and traders a boost, offering greater flexibility for visitors while balancing the need to maintain an effective flow of traffic into these city centres during the festive season.

“I encourage all visitors to Lisburn and Newry to park responsibly to ensure we have safer streets, better access for disabled people, support for local business and a transport system that works for everyone,” added the Minister.

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