St. Coman's Wood Primary School and Scoil Mhuire Strokestown are seeking approval from county planners to go ahead with the construction plans.

Independent councillor Tom Crosby, who won re-election to Roscommon County Council last weekend, says elderly residents were told the town would lose 90% of its parking spaces

Polls closed at 10pm, after being open since 7am.

The statement also referred to extensive public consultation prior to Part 8 planning being approved by Roscommon County Council members.

The state recently allocated almost €8 million to a public realm enhancement project in the town.

Protests have been held as many residents and businesses are concerned that up to 90 per cent of car parking in the town will be lost.

The protesters say they will protest again tomorrow and on Friday, when the local elections take place.

Around 200 people attended a demonstration in the area on Sunday afternoon, against the state's public realm enhancement scheme.