Businesses in Newtownards town centre are facing repeated parking fines that could force them to relocate, with some reporting up to three tickets a week.

Strangford MP Jim Shannon has urged Ards and North Down Borough Council and the Department for Infrastructure to adopt a more flexible approach to enforcement while discussions on permanent solutions continue.

The MP said two local businesses, which together employ around 70 people, contacted him after their delivery vehicles were ticketed multiple times. The discounted penalty is £45 if paid promptly.

Shannon acknowledged the need to maintain traffic flow but stressed that firms cannot operate without regular deliveries. He warned that the financial pressure of the fines risks pushing a business out of the town centre.

Talks are under way between the council, the department and the local Chamber of Commerce about providing dedicated loading bays at Conway Square, a move that may ease the problem.