Controversial plans to scrap free parking at Barry Island are under review, following opposition from business owners who fear the detrimental impact it could have. The Vale of Glamorgan Council has announced a reevaluation of the proposed introduction of new on-street parking charges at Barry Island and Penarth. These plans have been met with resistance as they could lead to the closure of the Court Road multi-storey car park in Barry, as well as the implementation of car parking fees at popular seaside spots.
The proposed on-street charges would affect various locations along the seafronts of Barry Island and Penarth. Currently, parking is free for the first two hours in these areas. The council justifies these changes by stating that they aim to boost turnover in these busy seaside destinations and generate funds for the maintenance of the resorts. However, local business owners have raised concerns, fearing that the introduction of charges could drive away winter trade and result in shop closures.
Louis Ross, the owner of Barrybados, expressed relief that the council is reconsidering the parking charge plans in response to feedback from the community. A petition opposing the on-street charges at Barry Island, initiated by Louis, has already garnered over 3,300 signatures. The planned charges in Barry Island would impact several roads, including Paget Road, Breaksea Drive, Friars Road, and Station Approach Road. Similarly, parking fees are proposed for specific areas along the Penarth seafront.
Despite attempts by business owners to discuss the potential repercussions with council officials, concerns remain about the long-term effects on the local economy. The Vale of Glamorgan Council, facing a budget deficit of £8m for the upcoming year, contends that the current operation of the Court Road car park is a financial burden. Plaid Cymru councillor for Buttrills, Cllr Ian Johnson, pointed out that the closure of the multi-storey car park could pose challenges for shoppers in the bustling Barry town centre.
The council has approved the principle of charging at four coastal car parks, subject to a statutory public consultation period. Work will be undertaken to gather further evidence before a final decision is made regarding the closure of Court Road car park and the proposed on-street charges at Barry Island and Penarth. Vale of Glamorgan Council leader Lis Burnett emphasized the importance of visitor contributions towards the maintenance costs of the resorts, rather than solely relying on residents’ council tax payments.
In an effort to maintain consistency, the proposed parking charges at the coastal car parks will align with existing fees at other council-run facilities. Season tickets will be available for off-street coastal car parks, offering flexibility for regular visitors. Vale of Glamorgan Council aims to ensure transparency in decision-making by considering all available evidence before reaching a final verdict on the parking charge proposals. The impact of these potential changes on local businesses and visitors will continue to be a key consideration moving forward.