Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced that a new application process for demand-led residents' parking schemes is now open.

The new system allows individuals and communities to formally submit proposals for parking zones in their areas. The initial application window will remain open for three months, closing on 31 July 2026, before reopening on a cyclical basis to allow the Department for Infrastructure to coordinate and prioritise assessments.

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 28th April. "The demand-led application process will enable individuals and communities to submit proposals for residents' parking zones in their area for formal consideration. To ensure effective management of the application process, the window for applications will initially open for a period of three months and will reopen on a cyclical basis. This will allow my Department to better coordinate the assessment and prioritisation of schemes so that the process is managed in a structured, transparent, and efficient way."

To be considered for a residents' parking zone, a proposed area must meet the following requirements:

Nuisance Parking: Must have evidence of persistent commuter or nuisance parking.

Road Status: Must consist entirely of public roads (private roads are ineligible).

Off-Street Access: Fewer than 50% of properties in the area should have access to off-street parking.

Community Support: Must include evidence of clear local support for the scheme.

The new approach follows recommendations from the Residents' Parking Review Report, which highlighted that such zones are effective when there is a demonstrated local need but required a more structured delivery process.

Minister Kimmins 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."

Detailed guidance on the application process and specific criteria is available on the NI Direct website.