Motorhomes and campervans face new restrictions in six UK staycation hotspots as local authorities crack down on unauthorized overnight stays. Denbighshire County Council has unveiled plans for six short-stay parking sites for motorhomes and campervans, aiming to reduce illegal camping in popular coastal areas.
Denbighshire Motorhome Aire Project
The "Denbighshire Motorhome Aire" project is designed to address the rising number of motorhome users and problems associated with what the council calls "illegal camping" in streets, laybys, and car parks across the county. The initiative seeks to provide designated parking areas for motorhome users while protecting local environments and communities.
However, the proposed site at Marine Drive (East Parade) in Rhyl has sparked significant opposition from local residents. One resident, who lives on Marine Drive, described the land as a vital part of the local environment, calling it "a wonderful buffer between the sea and the housing district of Rhyl." He told the BBC: "We don't want it here. It is a public open space. It is green fields, it is where people play, it is where they walk their dogs."
Council's Response
Paul Jackson, head of highways and environmental services at Denbighshire County Council, acknowledged the surge in motorhome usage since the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people opted for staycations in the UK. He said: "We know the use of motorhomes has increased, especially since the Covid pandemic where everybody took staycations in the UK. The project's innovative proposals will help provide great facilities for those wishing to travel across Denbighshire. They will provide a fantastic boost for tourism and businesses where these sites are located once they come online."
Proposed Motorhome Sites in Denbighshire
The six proposed sites are:
- Quay Street, Rhyl – Corner section of a currently closed car park, with the remaining area allocated for coach parking.
- Marine Drive (East Parade), Rhyl – A small area to be allocated close to the Pavilion.
- Barkby Beach, Prestatyn – Lower car park adjacent to public toilets.
- Park Street, Ruthin – A small section of the current car park.
- Green Lane, Corwen – A small number of bays along the current car park exit road.
- Mill Street, Llangollen – A small section of the lower car park along a retaining wall to the upper car park.
The council hopes these sites will reduce unauthorized overnight stays while supporting tourism and local businesses. However, the Marine Drive proposal remains contentious, with residents concerned about the loss of green space and its impact on the community.
