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SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF TALLAGHT AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

MOTION NO. 4

MOTION: Councillor D. Richardson

That the Chief Executive reports on the use of the car park at Tallaght Stadium. Could this be opened up to use by shoppers in the area as a pay and display. Currently parking in the area is at a premium with the Arena complex. Clamping is in operation in the Arena complex when you leave the complex the security in the Arena call the clampers and get the car clamped.  Not only are they preying on vulnerable families causing distress and a large fine to remove the clamp, also the car park could be used for walkers and families that use Sean Walsh Park.

REPORT:

Tallaght Stadium and its associated facilities are primarily provided for sporting purposes. In order to offset as far as possible the operating costs of the facility some alternative contractual arrangements have been entered into which generate additional income, on the strict proviso that these arrangments do not conflict with the primary purpose of the stadium. Some existing contracted car parking arrangements are in place at present on this basis.

The proposal set out in the motion was previously examined and it was noted that the introduction of such a proposal would give rise to severe operational difficulties on match days. It was felt that the only solution would be to suspend such parking on match days and this would be in conflict with the nature of the proposal. It was also felt that the pay and display concept might conflict with the existing contractual arrangements.

It was also noted that there is a significant upfront additional capital cost attached to such a proposal and based on the projected incomes such expenditure could not be justified.

An examination was also undetaken as to whether part of the existing carpark could be included in the Council's current Pay and Display arrangements but having regard to the foregoing, the fact that the car park woudl be designated as off street car parking and other operational issues it was not considered feasible. Notwithstanding this decision, due to the current contracted arrangements sections of the exisitng car park can be used at present by registered Payzone customers and this fact is advertised on site and elsewhere.

If the Members are aware of an existing business or company which is interested in exploring whether it would be possible to enter into a contracted arrangement for car parking then they should refer them directly to the Stadium Manager.