Despite the presence of cycle lanes, illegal parking forces cyclists into traffic, leading to accidents and discouraging cycling. The lack of prioritisation in dealing with these issues is a barrier to uptake in cycling as cyclists continue to face daily hazards, discouraging people from cycling, and aggression.
We underscore the urgent need for stricter enforcement of parking regulations and the implementation of more thoughtful infrastructure design to better protect cyclists. We hope that proper enforcement and increased safety will encourage more individuals to choose cycling as their primary mode of transport.
Recent surveys, alongside extensive research, have pinpointed ten locations in Cork where illegal parking remains a persistent issue but the problem is not excluded to these locations.
These areas are notorious for illegal parking, yet little has been done to address the problem. The widespread illegal parking in these locations disrupts the safe flow of cyclists and significantly heightens the risk of accidents. Cyclists are often forced to weave in and out of traffic, further increasing the danger they face.
Why are we doing this?
By identifying black spots, we aim to highlight the risks cyclists face and advocate for safer streets in Cork, especially for cyclists and other active transport users.
We seek to raise awareness with authorities about these dangers. While the Cork Cycling Campaign has made efforts, more action is needed.
Focusing on the threats from illegal parking, we stress the serious safety risks for cyclists and call for swift action to address these hazards, ensuring safer and more accessible streets for active travel through stronger enforcement, better infrastructure, and planning.
Parking Complaints
Submit wrongfully parked cars and other parking complaints or Email. Please attach a clear picture as well.
It takes circa 5 minutes.
In 2023, a total of 49,511 parking offences were detected by the city’s traffic wardens. Of these, 2,400 drivers were fined for parking on footpaths in 2024.
Looking at previous years, the number of fines had surged by 57% in 2022, reaching 49,956 as traffic in Cork City returned to pre-pandemic levels following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions. However, the Cork Cycling Campaign believes this figure still represents only a fraction of the total parking offences, as demonstrated by the numerous reports shared via the Bad Parking Cork account on Bluesky.
Additional examples of these issues can be found on the Bad Parking Cork BlueSky account.
Top 10 Black Spots for Illegal Parking on Cycle Lanes in Cork
Cork Cycling Campaign has identified key locations where illegal parking on cycle lanes is a significant issue, posing safety risks to cyclists. These locations include:
Cork Cycling Campaign are requesting design measures to prevent illegal parking on new cycle lanes constructed as part of the MacCurtain St upgrade.
Enforcement is not effective in preventing dangerous parking behaviour in this location which often occurs during the evening when parking wardens are not on duty.
Location of Centre Park Rd, Monahan Rd and Marquee Rd
During events or matches at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, there is a significant issue with illegal parking, particularly on the cycle lanes and sidewalks in the surrounding area.
This widespread violation not only obstructs the flow of traffic but also puts cyclists and pedestrians at risk, as they are forced to navigate around parked vehicles, often in busy or poorly lit conditions.
Washington Street in Cork is a bustling and important part of the city, known for its shops, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere. However, the street becomes hazardous when illegal parking occurs, particularly along areas designated for cyclists and pedestrians. Vehicles obstructing cycle lanes force cyclists into traffic, increasing the risk of accidents. Similarly, parked cars can narrow the space for pedestrians, making it difficult and unsafe for them to navigate the area.
South Main Street in Cork is a popular, busy street, but illegal parking often creates dangers. When vehicles block lanes for cyclists or pedestrians, it forces them into the road, heightening the risk of collisions. Stricter enforcement is needed to improve safety and maintain smooth traffic flow.
Pope's Quay in Cork features a bike lane that offers a route along the water. While the lane provides a decent cycling experience, it is frequently obstructed by obstacles, making it challenging to navigate at times.
Vic
toria Road, while a vital route through the city, faces significant challenges due to bad parking. Cars are often parked in inappropriate or obstructive ways, blocking bike lanes and narrowing the road for both pedestrians and motorists.
North Mall is a historic quay, but poor parking often creates serious issues. Cars frequently block footpaths and cycle lanes, forcing pedestrians and cyclists into traffic.
Western Road is a key route connecting Cork city centre to the west, passing alongside the UCC campus. Lined with historic buildings, it serves as a busy corridor for students, commuters, and cyclists.
However, heavy traffic and poor parking often create challenges, especially for cyclists and pedestrians navigating the area. Despite these issues, Western Road remains an important link between the city and university life.
Boreenmanna Road is a route linking the city to the southeastern suburbs. It runs near Ballinlough Park, a valued green space. While the road serves as an important connection, traffic congestion and poor parking can create difficulties, particularly for cyclists and pedestrians.
Liberty Street in Cork is a short but busy street connecting key parts of the city. It has a mix of businesses and residential spaces, making it a well-traveled route.
Traffic Watch
Traffic Watch helps improve road safety by allowing the public to report non-emergency traffic incidents online. If you witness dangerous driving, bad parking or other concerns that don’t require an immediate Garda response, submit a report via the Garda webpage.
Launched in August 2024, this initiative aims to reduce incidents. Link to Traffic Watch
About us
The Cork Cycling Campaign is a volunteer group promoting utility and recreational cycling in Cork City and County. Founded in 1999, the Campaign advocates for improved conditions for people cycling in Cork and strives for recognition and promotion of cycling as an essential form of transport. Cork Cycling Campaign has been the voice of people cycling in Cork for 20 years; we have over 500 members and over 20 volunteers. We engage regularly with the media and key stakeholders on transport questions.
We are completely funded by you based on donations and run by volunteers. If you want to see more Traffic Counters or a safer city, you can help our cause by donating.