Cashless parking study and campervan parking trial for Fermoy

Cork County Council are looking at doing a study into a county-wide option for cashless parking, according to Cllr Frank O’Flynn. He made the announcement at a meeting this week of Fermoy MD, during a discussion on the issue of paying for parking in Fermoy.

Cllr Noel McCarthy brought up the suggestion in January that paying by card be made an option in Fermoy, and the council agreed to look at the options available to them. In other parts of the country, including within Limerick City and county, people have the option to pay by app, avoiding the need to return to the car to renew parking, and eliminating the need for machines.

However, Cllr Frank Roche pointed out that a move to cashless parking may prove problematic for elderly motorists, or those only with access to cash, and the council agreed to look at a dual model.

TURNOVER OF SPACES

In January, changes to parking restrictions and payments were made to the library car park in the town, to allow for a greater turnover of parking spaces within the 50c per hour car park. The Upper Kevin Barry Hill car park, however, remained at the €1 daily rate, increasing the demand for parking here.

It was suggested that an existing casual trading spot, which is rarely used, be moved from Upper Kevin Barry Hill to elsewhere in the town. Municipal District officer Pauline Moriarty stated that the casual trading space has been identified in the town bylaws and until an individual seeks to use the spot or applies for a licence for the area, she did not see an issue with individuals using it to park cars.

CAMPERVANS

The location of campervan parking in the town was discussed too, in advance of the summer season. Last summer, a trial of campervan parking on Upper Kevin Barry Hill was installed, providing parking for up to eight vehicles. Since the trial has ended, cars have begun parking in the spaces again, as they are entitled to.

An alternative location for campervan parking on the left hand side of the Mill Road carpark was posited, however county engineer Brendan O’Gorman cautioned against removing the overhead barrier to the carpark, as it could open the space to be used for other large vehicles that could park there overnight, or longer.

He instead proposed a trial of the Rathealy Road, a suggestion eagerly supported by Cllr Noel McCarthy, who pointed out that that portion of the riverside is underused, and could benefit from benches and other amenities.

Municipal District Officer, Pauline Moriarty stated that both locations would be considered and that council officials would return to the members with a proposal next month.

“The decision needs to be made whether we want to trial it again this summer or agree on the location and put bylaws and services in place. We can trial another area this summer. That means we can line it out and we can put up signage. It just means that it won’t be enforceable like last year,” Ms Moriarty said.