Parking in Clonmel

Clonmel BID statement on town centre parking

Parking matters to every business in Clonmel, and we know many traders feel strongly about it. There's been a lot of discussion about the proposals, so Clonmel BID has engaged directly with Tipperary County Council to get clear facts on the options. Clonmel Borough District councillors are due to vote on the options on Wednesday 21st October 2026.

The two options

Under the new county parking bye-laws, Clonmel's councillors are choosing between two options. Both include 20 minutes free parking across the town, on street and in car parks. Drivers take a ticket from the machine, but no registration is needed.

Option 1 applies the 20 minutes free throughout the town. On O'Connell Street and Gladstone Street, the first 20 minutes are free and the maximum stay is one hour.

Option 2 adds one hour free on O'Connell Street and Gladstone Street only. The free hour is part of a two-hour maximum stay, with the second hour paid. To use it, drivers enter their car registration at the machine, and it can be used once a day.

Under both options, the Mary Street barrier car park keeps its 30 minutes free, and pay machines will be upgraded to take card payments. The changes are due to start on 1 March 2027.

Parking income

Under the Council's new scheme, if Clonmel's parking income reaches its 2023 level, a share is returned to the town for investment. If it falls below that level, the shortfall is taken from the District's local budget. This is one of the factors we'll be discussing with businesses.

Next steps

Clonmel BID is now speaking with businesses on O'Connell Street and Gladstone Street, and across the town centre, to hear their views. If you'd like to share yours, please contact May Stokes at ceo@clonmelbid.com or 083 3706112