A customers service agent working for McDonalds Restaurants has told a Killarney councillor that they “may determine it necessary to close Drive Thrus if there is local disruption.”

TRAFFIC: Scenes like this are common place at the entrance to McDonalds.

CONCERNS: Emergency vehicles cannot access the estate because to traffic issued at McDonalds.

For the third time in less than six months concerns have been raised over traffic congestion at fast food outlet.
Traffic at the popular fast food restaurant has increased as a result of the pandemic. Diners are encouraged to eat take away food and the indoor section of McDonalds remains closed.

Traffic, at certain times during the day, queues along Park Road, as the wait their turn at the drive through.

Once they are served, motorists then park on double yellow lines or on footpaths while they await their order or to eat their meal in the car.
The illegal parking is causing stress for locals who live in the large estate to the rear of the restaurant.

They are also concerned that emergency vehicles will not be able to gain access to the estate as a result of the inconsiderate parking.
At a recent meeting of Killarney Municipal District Meeting, Mayor Marie Moloney said: “This is not good enough, people cannot get into their own homes,” while Cllr John O’Donoghue added: “residents are prisoners in their own homes.”

Meanwhile Cllr Donal Grady contacted McDonalds directly. In correspondence seen by the Killarney Advertiser he was told: “We are working with Local Authorities and police and we may determine it necessary to close Drive Thrus if there is local disruption or puts the safety of our employees and customers at risk.” 

One proposal being put forward is to remove the lawn area at the front of the restaurant and to create a slip road in its place. The council also has plans to put extra road markings there.

“It is intended to extend and increase the visibility of road markings. The road lining contractor has been awarded the works and it is envisaged that the works would be completed by the end of January. Kerry County Council Traffic Wardens will monitor and if required, enforce for any illegal parking at this location. If illegal parking continues, Kerry County Council can look at alternative measures,” a council official told  a recent Killarney Municipal District meeting.

A McDonalds spokesperson told the Killarney Advertiser: 
“We are aware of the wider traffic issues in the area and we’re keen to play an active role in addressing any problems. We strive to be a good neighbour and would welcome the opportunity to work with local agencies to help consider solutions.”