A fresh protest is set to take place this Saturday, December 13th, as local residents continue their campaign against the introduction of parking barriers and charges at Blanchardstown Town Centre.
Demonstrators will gather at 1 pm at the Blakestown roundabout entrance, marking the latest in a series of community actions opposing the plan, which was recently granted permission by Fingal County Council.
Residents have lodged a formal appeal with An Comisiún Pleanála, seeking to overturn the approval for the Centre’s Mobility Enhancement Project.
People protesting outside Blanchardstown Shopping Centre. Pic: RollingNews.ie
The scheme would introduce controlled entry barriers and paid parking across the Centre’s car parks, which have operated free of charge for decades.
Local campaigners argue that the move will deter shoppers, harm footfall, and push parking pressure into surrounding estates.
They also highlight that the complex provides access to key public amenities — including the library, council offices, theatre and community services — and say charges will place an unfair burden on ordinary users.
People protesting outside Blanchardstown Shopping Centre. Pic: RollingNews.ie
Much of the criticism has focused on the Centre’s current owners, an international investment fund that also owns parking operator Apcoa.
Residents claim this creates an incentive to maximise parking revenue, insisting that the project is driven more by profit than public need.
Community representatives warn that the changes will damage the Centre’s long-established role as a regional hub and may further challenge retailers already struggling with the shift toward online shopping.
People protesting outside Blanchardstown Shopping Centre. Pic: RollingNews.ie
The parking plans have already attracted significant opposition. Recent demonstrations, petitions and public meetings have drawn large turnouts, reflecting widespread frustration at what many see as an unnecessary and harmful measure.
Campaigners say Saturday’s event is intended to maintain pressure as the appeal process continues. With the festive shopping season in full swing, they believe now is the moment to show the scale of local resistance.
The protest is expected to cause delays to traffic around the Blanchardstown Centre area, and organisers are urging motorists to plan accordingly.
