Road rage from Springfield residents over parking bays
By Aura McMenamin
NEW parking spaces on Cookstown Way have caused anger amongst residents in Springfield – who say traffic is slower as a result and the issue of illegal parking has not gone away.
Parking spaces were created across from the Tallaght Hospital Luas to deal with a demand for parking in the area.
However, people living in estates nearby say this has made the issue of illegal parking in nearby estates worse.
James Doyle, chairman of the Springfield Residents Association from the Maplewood area, said: “It’s causing obstructions to people crossing the road or kids going to school.”
South Dublin County Council said: “The parking area was installed within the past month. It was done to regularise a growing demand for parking in the area. The parking is open to all users, but it would seem reasonable that most are using the Luas or visiting the hospital.
“While it is not possible to prevent vehicles parking legally in estates it may contribute to a reduction in demand.”
However, Doyle said: “It’s causing more traffic jams and not helping the issue of cars being parked illegally in our estates.”
Fianna Fáil councillor Charlie O’Connor commented: “If you travel along the Luas line from the Square up to Kingswood, each estate has these challenges.
“Belgard, Kilnamanagh, all people there were complaining about cars parked in their area to access the Luas or hospital.”
The council also denied rumours that parking meters would be installed on the road.
