Hidden Disability Parking Spaces Officially Rolled Out In Bray

The move following a sustained campaign led by Councillors Aoife Flynn Kennedy and Melanie Corrigan.

The initiative, which was first proposed in 2021, marks a significant step forward in improving accessibility and inclusion for individuals living with non-visible disabilities.

With one in five people in Ireland living with some form of disability—80% of whom live with a non-visible disability—the need for accessible public spaces has never been greater.

Hidden Disability Parking provides strategically located spaces for individuals whose conditions may not qualify them for a Blue Badge, but who still require easier access to services and amenities.

Councillor Aoife Flynn Kennedy said:

“Some people with a disability may not qualify for a Blue Badge, so these courtesy parking spaces provide a safe and accessible place to park. While the hidden disability spaces require paid parking, with the Pay and Display ticket machine located close to these spaces, we would ask the general public to respect the spaces and leave them for those with hidden disabilities.”

Councillor Melanie Corrigan added:

“These spaces are for individuals and families with hidden conditions like autism, sensory disabilities, acquired brain injuries and other challenges. They may not have a disabled badge, but they do need to be able to park closer to facilities in order to safely access them.”

The councillors also paid tribute to local resident and campaigner Bernadette Nolan McGrath, along with Tristan Casson-Rennie from The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Team, Ireland & Northern Ireland, for their ongoing support.

Hidden Disability Parking spaces are now in place on Eglinton Road and in the Herbert Road Car Park.

They are easily identifiable by their green colour and signage indicating that they are reserved for individuals with non-visible disabilities.

To learn more about hidden disabilities and the Sunflower initiative, visit: https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/ie/