Action sought on parking for service and trades vehicles

A proposal to introduce quarterly or annual parking permits for business and service vehicles in Mullingar has sparked renewed debate among councillors, and calls for swift action to ease the daily burden faced by tradespeople and service workers.

At this month’s meeting of the Municipal District of Mullingar Kinnegad, Cllr Bill Collentine put forward a motion calling for the creation of longer-term parking permits aimed specifically at those delivering essential services throughout the town.

While council officials confirmed that a new parking strategy is currently being developed – which will include a review of permit policies – Cllr Collentine expressed frustration at the lack of a clear response or timeline.

“I brought this up before, and I didn’t get anywhere with it,” he said. “I don’t understand the answer again today. Can we not just make a decision – yes or no?”

Cllr Collentine argued that small business owners and service technicians are currently wasting valuable time looking for parking change or trying to reclaim parking expenses. He said many service workers could be attending five, six, or even more locations in a single day.

“Every time they have to move the van, they’re hunting for change again. It’s a waste of time and it’s holding up services,” he said. “This should be a business expense – paid once and accounted for. A quarterly or yearly permit would be far more efficient.”

He also stressed the benefit to the council in terms of guaranteed income: “This is money prepaid to the council. It’s easier for everyone – the worker, the employer, and the council.”Cllr Ken Glynn seconded the motion and agreed the proposal made sense for both the business community and the local authority.

“We need to try and make it as efficient as possible for businesses,” he said. “Director, I know you speak regularly with the Chamber of Commerce. If this hasn’t come up already, it really should be on the agenda.”

Director of services Deirdre Reilly confirmed the idea would be explored as part of the wider Mullingar Car Parking Strategy currently in development. She said the council is also reviewing permit policies.

“Parking by-laws are within your gift,” she told members. “We’ll do the groundwork and come back to you with proposals.”

The mayor, Cllr Mick Dollard, asked if there was any indication of demand for such permits, but

Ms Reilly pointed out that no data is yet available, as the work has only just begun. She did confirm that there is currently a waiting list for long-term parking in Mullingar.

Cllr Collentine closed by reiterating that the issue should not be put “on the long finger” any longer.

“I propose we move forward with this,” he said. “It’s a small thing that would make a big difference.”

It was agreed the matter will now be considered as part of the ongoing review of parking policy in the district.