Loyalist arches ‘cause trade loss’
By Connla Young
29/08/2006
The erection and removal of loyalist arches is costing the economy thousands of pounds each year, a Co Antrim businessman has claimed.
The Glengormley-based businessman, who has asked not to be identified for fear of reprisal, has said the closure of roads while arches are erected and taken down in the summer months results in a significant loss of trade each year.
The businessman was speaking just days after loyalists in Glengormley, on the outskirts of north Belfast, removed an arch from the town centre. The operation involved the PSNI closing local roads without warning while heavy lifting equipment was brought in.
“We don’t receive any notification at all. They just decide to close roads and none of the businesses are told. This happens every year and it caused major problems.
“We are trying to create a night-time economy in Glengormley but the town is sealed off for hours on end. Many people are left with staff who have nothing to do. We can’t even send them home as they can’t get out of the area.
“I’m not able to get any money back because of the loss of business. No one lets us know — not the police or the Orange Order. They don’t even let the local chamber of commerce know what’s happening,” he said.
The businessman said the erection of loyalist flags in the Glengormley district had a negative impact on business.
“Last year, they took down the flags and that was brilliant. This year, they have been left up and it doesn’t help the image of the town. Everybody uses Glengormley but these flags are negative and they put some people off coming to the town.”
