Local residents are planning a protest against the potential future charges on Saturday, 6 December
Blanchardstown Centre
Residents are protesting against an application by Blanchardstown Centres owners to introduce charges and barriers on its 7,000 car parking spaces.
In a submission to Fingal County Council last month, the west Dublin shopping centre sought permission for a range of projects, including the implementation of barrier controlled parking which will result in paid parking if approved.
Local residents are planning a protest against the potential future charges on Saturday, December 6, which is due to be a busy shopping day in the lead up to Christmas. This follows a protest which took place on November 15.
Solidarity TD for Dublin West, Ruth Coppinger, said she has objected with Fingal Council to the planning application for barriers. She said she is on board with the community to organise against “being fleeced in a cost of living crisis”.
“Toll parking would also only increase online shopping and exacerbate shop closures and job losses in the Centre”, said Deputy Coppinger.
“Toll barriers would lead to more congestion in and around the Centre; more delays to already bogged-down public transport, most of which goes through the Centre; and overflow parking in neighbouring estates like Whitestown, Sheepmoor, Hillbrook Woods etc.
“These charges are being proposed by a huge international investment fund, SVP, who’ve bought the Centre and will squeeze for profit the retail workers, shoppers and local community who use key public facilities at the Centre.”
“It is particularly scandalous that key resources such as the Library, Post Office, Draoicht, credit union, banking, medical facilities and Fingal Council offices would be accessible at a cost for all, but especially older and disabled people who may be reliant on car use.”
“The Centre’s retail workers are not well paid, already suffering the Cost of Living crisis and will now be penalised further by a wealthy corporation. Liffey Valley workers can pay up to €600 per year,” she claimed.
“The plan would also fell nearly 500 mature trees and erect large LED signage, damaging the environment and biodiversity.
“A protest will be held in the Centre on Saturday 6 December at 1pm, one of the busiest shopping days of the year to send a message to Centre management that we won’t accept this profit-grab and enclosure of an open community resource.”
Proposed Blue Mall development at Blanchardstown Centre
A spokesperson for Blanchardstown Centre told Dublin Live previously: “Blanchardstown Centre has committed to significantly upgrading our customer experience, with up to €60m in investment at the Centre, including the development of the new 45,000 sq ft Blue Mall which will provide additional food and beverage options for visitors.
“The investment also includes an upgrade of car parking, wayfinding and transport facilities at Blanchardstown Centre to improve mobility and access. It is intended that works to deliver these projects, which will include the implementation of paid parking, will commence in 2026.
“Planning for the delivery of these projects is underway and we will consult with all Blanchardstown Centre stakeholders. Further details will be shared in due course.”
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