Bogus disabled parking symbol mysteriously appears outside house
A PENNYWELL resident is baffled as to the identity of the ‘phantom’ painter who neatly painted a bogus disabled parking space symbol outside his front gate.
The house in question faces the back of the former Good Shepherd Convent.
When questioned by the Limerick Post, the homeowner replied he was aware of its existence, but unaware who had created it.
Confirming that residents in the area had problems with motorists parking outside their homes, he said: “I don’t know anything about that symbol…ask the city council”.
CEO of the Disabled Drivers Association, Kenneth Fox, was surprised by the development:
“We often get bogus disability parking cards, but this is the first time I’ve ever heard of a bogus disabled parking space”.
He is certain that this particular DIY space is invalid, and emphasised that only the local authority has the power to allocate such space.
“Any holders of a disabled parking pass can apply for a disabled parking space outside of their home”.
He suggested that most local authorities will designate spaces, where necessary.
Fingal County Council have recently published information for Sat Navs, which identifies where disabled parking bays are available within their boundaries.
The row of houses, within walking distance of the city centre, is also in close proximity to St John’s Hospital and Limerick School of Art and Design.
There are no road markings on the street to suggest roadside parking is illegal.
It was pointed out to the Limerick Post that motorists regularly park on Pennywell Road to avoid paid-for parking in the city centre and local amenities.
There are over 30 disabled parking bays spread across Limerick city, with the highest concentrations on O’Connell Street, Catherine Street and Sexton Street.
