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Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced that applications for demand-led residents' parking schemes will open tomorrow Tuesday 28 April, with a three-month window for individuals and communities to submit proposals. The new process follows a review which recommended changes to how residents' parking zones are considered and delivered.
The application window runs from 28 April 2026 and closes on 31 July 2026, after which it will reopen on a cyclical basis to allow the Department to coordinate the assessment and prioritisation of schemes in a structured way.
Minister Kimmins said: "Last month I announced my intention to introduce a new streamlined approach to consider requests for demand-led residents' parking zones. I am pleased to confirm that the application process will open on Tuesday 28 April."
The new approach follows recommendations from the Residents' Parking Review Report, which confirmed that residents' parking zones can work well where there is clear local need, but identified changes needed to deliver schemes more effectively. To be considered, an area must have persistent commuter or nuisance parking, consist entirely of public roads, have less than 50 per cent of properties with access to off-street parking, and include evidence of local support for a scheme.
The Minister added: "Parking is an issue of concern for residents in many areas so I have no doubt there will be considerable interest in this new process. I would therefore encourage anyone who believes their area would benefit from a residents' parking zone to carefully consider the criteria and guidance available."
Further information, including guidance on how to apply, is available on NI Direct at nidirect.gov.uk
