Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 June 2026
156. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has assessed the impact low car parking provision in high-density residential developments; its effect on community relations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46879/26]
View answerMaximum parking rates for new residential developments are addressed at a national level in the Sustainable Residential Development and Compact Settlement Guidelines “the Settlement Guidelines”, issued in 2024 under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
The Settlement Guidelines aim to support the use of public transport, walking and cycling to reduce traffic congestion, lower emissions and improve air quality, contributing to national climate goals. The Settlement Guidelines are designed to strike the balance between the need for residents to have access to parking but also to support investments in public transport services and active travel (walking and cycling). The provision of car parking can also add significant cost to developments, in particular high-density schemes (i.e. apartments) where higher ratios of parking necessitate a podium or basement car park.
The Settlement Guidelines set out graduated maximum car parking rates based on proximity to urban centres and sustainable transport options. These range from 1 space per dwelling in central or accessible locations to 2 spaces per dwellings in more peripheral or intermediate locations with higher rates of car dependency. These rates do not include bays assigned for use by a car club, designated short stay on–street Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations or accessible parking spaces.
It should be noted that prior to the issuing of the Settlement Guidelines in 2024, parking rates were generally set by planning authorities through their development plans.
Where planning permission is sought for particular residential development proposals, planning authorities and An Coimisiún Pleanála will need to be satisfied that the necessary and appropriate provision of parking is provided in accordance with the requirements of the Settlement Guidelines. For developments of 100 residential units or more, the Settlement Guidelines recommend that a Mobility Management Plan/ Travel Plan is prepared in support of the proposed parking arrangements.
It should also be noted that local authorities are independent in their functions under the Local Government Acts, and under the provisions of Section 36 of the Road Traffic Act, which falls under the responsibility of the Minister for Transport, roads authorities may make bye-laws for the control, management and regulation of on-street parking of vehicles (including Residential Parking Permits) in public areas.
