Parking shortage at Laytown train station highlighted

A local councillor is calling for urgent action to address the shortage of commuter parking at Laytown Train Station, warning that the lack of facilities is putting daily pressure on residents, commuters, and businesses in the area.

Fine Gael Cllr Sharon Tolan says the current parking provision is “no longer fit for purpose” and is causing daily frustration for those who rely on public transport to travel to work, school, and college. Local businesses are also feeling the impact, with congestion and limited parking availability deterring potential customers.

“Every day, I hear from constituents who are struggling to find safe and accessible parking at Laytown Train Station,” said Cllr Tolan. “The overflow is impacting residential streets and creating unnecessary tension for local communities. Businesses in the area are suffering too, as potential customers are put off by the lack of available parking. We urgently need a solution that supports commuters, businesses, and residents alike.”

With East Meath’s population continuing to grow and public transport usage on the rise, the councillor believes investment in commuter infrastructure must be prioritised.

“We have worked hard to promote public transport as a viable and now affordable alternative to driving into Dublin. However, if people cannot park safely near the station, they are discouraged from using the train,” she said. “Expanding commuter parking is a practical and immediate step that would make public transport more accessible and reliable for our community.”

Cllr Tolan is calling on Iarnród Éireann to expand the existing car park by utilising a large adjacent yard beside the station. She has also asked Meath County Council to engage with the National Transport Authority (NTA) to explore further solutions.

“This is about ensuring that East Meath residents and businesses have the infrastructure they need,” she added. “We cannot allow inadequate parking to become a barrier to sustainable transport or a barrier to doing business and we can no longer allow Irish Rail to shirk their responsibilities in this regard.”