Residents of Blanchardstown are voicing strong opposition to a proposal by the Blanchardstown Centre owners. The plan involves introducing parking charges and barriers to the Centre’s 7,000 car parking spaces. In response, community members staged their first protest last Saturday and have organized a larger demonstration for Saturday, December 6th.
Community Concerns Over Parking Fees
Ruth Coppinger, a Solidarity TD representing Dublin West, has formally objected to the planning application through Fingal Council. She is actively helping local workers and residents to organize against what they call “fleece charges” during an ongoing cost of living crisis.
Impact on Local Businesses and Residents
Coppinger warned that toll parking could severely impact local businesses. She emphasized that these charges would likely lead to increased online shopping, resulting in shop closures and job losses in the Centre.
- Toll barriers would exacerbate congestion in the area.
- Public transport, already delayed, would face further complications.
- Residents might have to find alternative parking solutions in nearby estates, such as Whitestown and Sheepmoor.
Criticism of the Proposed Changes
The proposed parking fees are being initiated by SVP, an international investment fund that recently acquired the Blanchardstown Centre. Coppinger criticized their approach, stating it prioritizes profit over community wellbeing.
She highlighted that essential services, including the local library, post office, and medical facilities, would come at a cost. This change particularly affects older and disabled residents who depend on car access.
Environmental Concerns
Additionally, the plan threatens to remove nearly 500 mature trees and introduce large LED signage, raising serious environmental and biodiversity issues.
The upcoming protest on December 6th at 1 PM will coincide with one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Organizers aim to send a clear message to the management of the Centre, opposing what they describe as a profitdriven initiative impacting a vital community resource.