Seaside parking rules spark tourism concern
LDRSTourism at a seaside town could be hit by new parking restrictions aimed at stopping motorhomes and campervans parking for days on end, some local businesses fear.
The rules, being introduced on a trial basis on Marine Parade in Saltburn, North Yorkshire, mean vehicles can only park in marked bays for a maximum of four hours between 09:00 and 17:00.
The restrictions apply to a popular overnight spot for motorhomes to camp out, and are intended to balance the needs of both residents and visitors, according to Redcar and Cleveland Council.
But local businesses have said the rules, which apply to all vehicles, could discourage day visitors from coming to the town.
Resident Ken Hutley said his sea view was regularly spoiled by vehicles parked in front of his home.
"We've had vans here parked for 10 months," he said. "Some people live in them.
"We've counted up to 100 at really busy times, but generally, sort of 15, 16.
"A vehicle of 20-odd feet long is an obstacle."
'Terrible for town'
But Glenn Pearson, from The Seaview Restaurant, said the restrictions would put people off visiting.
"People used to say 'let's go out for a day out to the seaside' and [the council] have included a policy now, which means, 'let's go for four hours at the seaside'," he said.
"People will not come to Saltburn any more.
"They will go to Whitby, they will go to Sandsend, they will go to Runswick Bay, so businesses like ours that rely on tourism will no longer see those people coming."
Evan Rogers, at Saltburn Surf Shop, said the restrictions were "terrible for the town".
"No-one comes to Saltburn for four hours, they want to come for the day, especially to the beach," he said.
Redcar and Cleveland Council said it was testing the impact of the parking restrictions and would continue listening to residents, businesses and visitors before making a final decision.
The new rules come into force on Tuesday.
