Speaking of the renewed effort to combat illegal parking, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Cllr Una Power said:
“Illegal parking is a significant issue across our county, especially during the summer months. This has negative impacts for accessibility to and enjoyment of our amazing local amenities. But blocking footpaths, lane ways and access point is not only anti-social, it’s also potentially dangerous and can cause issues for emergency services. I would appeal to all drivers to ensure they park in designated locations only.”
Illegal parking is a significant issue in our county. Over 2,400 parking tickets by wardens were issued in June 2020 alone, of which a significant portion of these tickets were for parking on footpaths, cycleways, accessible parking spaces, grass verges or blocking bus stops. The Council and the Gardaí are stepping up action against these anti-social practices which can endanger vulnerable path and road users.
Director of Service for the Council, Robert Burns noted:
“Illegal parking particularly on footpaths and cycle lanes is a serious road safety issue and can result in pedestrians, persons with mobility challenges and cyclists having to enter a traffic lane to avoid an obstructing vehicle, and so they may be put at risk of injury or worse.”
With additional pedestrians and cyclists of all abilities on our roads the Council are also appealing to motorists to drive with caution and urge them to stay within the speed limit. Motorists need to be considerate of cyclists and not overtake or attempt to overtake where they might endanger or cause inconvenience to a cyclist. The Road Safety Authority recommends that motorists maintain minimum passing distances of 1m on roads with a speed limit under 50km/h and within 1.5m on roads with a limit of 50km/h or higher.
Garda Chief Superintendent Matthew Nyland, Dún Laoghaire said:
“We are urging members of the public to be considerate of all road users. This means staying within the speed limit, being considerate of cyclists, and following the minimum passing distances as set out by the Road Safety Authority. An Gardaí Síochána is happy to be working with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council to facilitate safer roads for all.”
The Council is committed to providing a high-quality public realm for everybody in our communities. The Council and Gardaí will be working together and taking action on these issues to promote a safe outdoor environment for everybody and to ensure compliance with parking laws.
