Council plan to introduce pay parking in Cork suburbs

PAY parking is to be introduced for the first time in some Cork suburbs, it has been revealed.

A county council spokesman admitted yesterday that a plan exists to introduce pay and display machines or parking discs in Douglas and then extend the scheme to Carrigaline.

A survey carried out by the council showed that people were not inclined to walk more than 1,000 yards to shops or their place of work. Others were parking in the suburbs all day and getting buses into the city to work, which was taking up valuable space which could be used by shoppers.

The county council said no definite date had been established for the introduction of pay parking, but it was likely to be introduced in the centre of Douglas only.

Peter Collins, owner of Barry’s pub in Douglas, said the parking situation in the village centre was appalling.

“I’ve 20-odd spaces in the car park behind the pub which are used by everybody. I find it difficult to police it for my customers,” Mr Collins said.

He called on the council to enter into consultation with local residents and business people before they introduce pay parking.

“I’d also like to see more public car parks introduced in the area,” Mr Collins said.

Cllr Deirdre Forde cautiously welcomed the proposals. “Any new system which would alleviate the chaotic congestion in Douglas would be good. However, council officials must consult with the public, the gardaí, Bus Eireann and businesspeople before they introduce it,” Cllr Forde said.

She added her concern was that commuters in particular would park their cars in outlying estates which could obstruct residents and cause serious inconvenience.

It is understood that pay parking in Carrigaline would probably be confined to the congested main street and its immediate surrounds.

“Carrigaline is also definitely in the frame, but it will take longer before it’s implemented there,” Cllr Forde said.