Cork Airport Secures Approval for Expanded Car Park

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Cork Airport Boosts Parking Capacity with 669 New Spaces

Cork City Council has approved plans for a significant expansion of parking facilities at Cork Airport, adding 669 much-needed long-term spaces.

The development will see an extension to the existing Holiday Blue Long-Term Car Park. This expansion is a welcome addition, especially after all three airport car parks were wholly sold out during the June Bank Holiday weekend.

Along with the new parking spots, the project includes a revised internal road layout with pedestrian walkways. A new gated pedestrian access point and a maintenance gate are also part of the plans. Furthermore, trolley bays, CCTV equipment, fencing, an electrical enclosure, lighting, and signage will be installed.

As part of the development, some existing infrastructure will be removed. This includes current fencing, landscaping, and an existing pedestrian access from the Cork Airport Business Park. An informal pathway will also be cleared.

Cork City Council granted conditional permission, stating that the proposed development would not negatively impact the residential or visual amenities of the surrounding area. This decision ensures the expansion aligns with local environmental considerations.

Roy O’Driscoll, deputy managing director at Cork Airport, expressed his approval of the council’s decision.He indicated that further updates regarding the progress of the extension and associated works would be shared with stakeholders and customers in the coming months.

Understanding Airport Parking Expansions

Airport parking expansions are crucial for accommodating growing passenger numbers and improving the overall travel experience. These projects frequently enough involve careful planning to balance capacity needs with environmental and aesthetic considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cork Airport Parking

Q1: How many new car parking spaces will Cork airport have?

A1: Cork Airport is adding 669 new long-term car parking spaces.

Q2: Where is the new parking being developed?

A2: The expansion is on a site south of the existing Holiday Blue Long-Term Car Park at Cork airport.

Q3: Will there be parking spaces for people with disabilities?

A3: Yes, 32 of the new spaces will be designated for persons with reduced mobility.

Q4: What othre facilities are included in the car park development?

A4: The development includes new internal roads, footpaths, pedestrian and maintenance access gates, trolley bays, CCTV, fencing, lighting, and signage.

Q5: Why is this parking expansion necessary?

A5: The expansion is needed to meet demand, as evidenced by car parks selling out during peak periods like the June Bank Holiday weekend.

Q6: What is Cork Airport’s response to the granted planning permission?

A6: Cork Airport welcomes the decision and plans to communicate further updates on the progress of the extension to customers and stakeholders.

What are your thoughts on the Cork Airport parking expansion? Share your comments below and let us know if you’ve experienced parking challenges at the airport!

What is the projected increase in total parking spaces at Cork Airport following the expansion?

project Details & Timeline for Cork Airport Parking Expansion

Cork Airport has received the green light for a notable expansion of its car parking facilities. The approval, granted on July 22nd, 2025, addresses growing passenger numbers and aims to improve the overall passenger experience. The project will add approximately 600 additional parking spaces, bringing the total capacity to over 2,000 spaces. construction is slated to begin in Q1 2026, with completion expected by late 2026, just in time for the peak summer travel season. This expansion directly responds to increased demand for Cork Airport parking, particularly during peak times.

Addressing the Need: Rising Passenger Numbers at Cork

Cork Airport has experienced substantial growth in passenger traffic in recent years. Figures released earlier this year showed a 15% increase in passengers compared to 2023, driven by new routes and increased frequency on existing services. This surge in demand has put a strain on existing parking infrastructure, leading to congestion and difficulties for passengers seeking convenient airport parking Cork.The expansion is a proactive measure to accommodate this continued growth and maintain a high level of service.

What the Expansion Entails: A Breakdown of the New Facilities

The expansion isn’t just about adding spaces; it’s about enhancing the entire parking experience. Key features of the project include:

Multi-Story Car park: The core of the expansion will be a new, multi-story car park offering covered parking and enhanced security.

Improved Accessibility: Dedicated parking spaces for passengers with reduced mobility will be considerably increased, exceeding regulatory requirements.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Points: A substantial number of EV charging points will be integrated into the new car park, supporting the growing adoption of electric vehicles.This aligns with Cork Airport’s sustainability initiatives.

Enhanced Security features: The new facility will incorporate state-of-the-art security systems, including CCTV surveillance and improved lighting.

Streamlined Payment Systems: Implementation of a fully automated and integrated payment system, including contactless options and online pre-booking.

Parking Options at Cork Airport: A Comprehensive Overview

Currently, Cork Airport offers several parking options:

1. Short Term Parking: Ideal for rapid drop-offs and pick-ups, located closest to the terminal.
2. Long Term Parking: A more cost-effective option for longer trips, requiring a short shuttle bus transfer to the terminal.
3. Premium Parking: Offers the closest parking spaces to the terminal and frequently enough includes additional services like car washing.
4. Business Parking: Designed for frequent flyers, offering convenient access and dedicated spaces.

The expanded car park will integrate seamlessly with these existing options, providing passengers with a wider range of choices to suit their needs and budget. expect increased availability across all Cork Airport car parks post-expansion.

Benefits of the Cork Airport Car Park expansion

the benefits extend beyond simply providing more spaces.This project will:

Reduce congestion: Alleviate traffic bottlenecks during peak travel times.

Improve Passenger experience: Offer a more convenient and stress-free parking experience.

Support Economic Growth: facilitate increased tourism and business travel to the cork region.

Enhance Sustainability: Promote the use of electric vehicles through the provision of charging infrastructure.

Increase airport Capacity: Allow Cork Airport to handle future growth in passenger numbers.

Navigating Parking at Cork Airport: Practical Tips

Here are some tips for making the most of your Cork Airport parking experience:

Pre-Book Online: Booking in advance,especially during peak season,guarantees a space and often secures a lower rate.

Consider Off-Peak Travel: If possible, travel during less busy times to avoid congestion and higher parking fees.

Utilize the Shuttle Bus: The shuttle bus service for long-term parking is frequent and efficient.

Familiarize Yourself with the Layout: Check the Cork Airport website for a map of the car parks to help you locate your designated area.

* allow Ample Time: Especially during busy periods,allow extra time for parking,transferring to the terminal,and completing security checks.

Impact on Local Businesses & Employment

The construction phase of the project is expected to create approximately 50 temporary jobs. Furthermore, the increased passenger numbers facilitated by the expanded parking facilities will have a positive impact on local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions in the Cork region. The project represents a significant investment in the future of Cork Airport and the wider economy.