Motorhome and campervan drivers have been warned of new restrictions coming into effect this June across a popular northeast seaside destination.
Labour-run Redcar and Cleveland Council will start implementing a Traffic Regulation Order at Saltburn’s Marine Parade that will limit free parking to four-hour slots between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Saturday.
Under the new measures, drivers will be prohibited from returning within four hours of leaving their space without incurring a penalty, although parking remains unrestricted on Sundays and after 5pm daily.
The measures specifically target larger leisure vehicles, with motorhomes completely banned from parking in unmarked sections of the seafront road at any time.
Only the designated bays on the north side of Marine Parade will be available for motorhome owners, and they must adhere to the same time restrictions as other vehicles.
The crackdown follows persistent complaints from residents about vehicles, particularly motorhomes, occupying spaces along the seafront for extended periods.
Some owners were found leaving their vehicles parked for days at a time, generating concerns about noise and litter in the area.
The council first revealed its intentions in August, though the original proposals were more stringent. Initial plans would have prohibited overnight parking entirely, but the authority scaled back its approach following feedback.
Drivers will be restricted to parking for four-hour slots between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Saturday
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GETTY
Local Labour MP Anna Turley described the revised scheme as a compromise after the council stepped away from the complete overnight ban.
The restrictions aim to address criticism that vehicle owners have been blocking streets and overcrowding residential areas near the popular coastal spot.
Enforcement of the new rules will rely on parking machines that issue free tickets for the four-hour stays, with patrols roaming the area to ensure compliance with the restrictions.
Unmarked areas where motorhomes are prohibited will be identified with single yellow lines and appropriate signage, though other vehicles will still be permitted to park in these locations.
The new restrictions will apply to Marine Parade
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REDCAR AND CLEVELAND COUNCIL
Campaign group Saltburn Against Promenade Changes has voiced opposition to the scheme, with member Gemma Booth questioning the timing of the expenditure.
She pointed out that the £24,000 estimate for the installation of parking machines comes at a time when the council has told residents its finances are under significant pressure.
Ms Booth also raised accessibility concerns, arguing that the new equipment could obstruct pavement space for wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs.
A petition calling on the Government to prevent councils from imposing overnight parking bans on motorhomes and campervans has attracted hundreds of signatures, with organisers arguing the rules harm local economies and restrict personal freedoms.
Motorhomes and campervans have faced several parking and road restrictions in the UK this year | PA
Council leader Alec Brown said: “Saltburn is a much-loved destination, but it’s important that we strike a balance between meeting the needs of tourists who want to spend time by our beautiful coast, and residents who live here. We hope these changes mean everyone gets to enjoy the beauty Saltburn has to offer.”
Meanwhile, Councillor Carl Quartermain indicated the authority would assess how well the measures work once the summer season concludes.
Ward councillors Craig Hannaway, Stuart Smith and Philip Thomson welcomed the proposals, stating they were pleased their original suggestions had been incorporated into the final scheme.
They described the restrictions as a positive first step, contingent on successful enforcement and their continued involvement in the process.