Community Concerns Over Motorhome Parking Proposal in Rhyl
A green area in Rhyl, north Wales, is proposed to be converted into an overnight parking site for motorhomes, raising concerns among local residents about potential impacts on the seafront environment.
Denbighshire council has put forward plans for Marine Drive (East Parade) aiming to enhance tourism and address issues related to unauthorised overnight stays, often referred to as "illegal camping."
However, residents emphasize the importance of the designated land as a valued community space.
Warren Bennett, a resident of Marine Drive, described the area as:
"a wonderful buffer between the sea and the housing district of Rhyl"
He expressed opposition to the plan, stating:
"We don't want it here. It is public open space. It is green fields, it is where people play, it is where they walk their dogs."
Bennett also noted that the Welsh government had previously identified the grassland on the seafront as an area deserving protection.
He added:
"This isn't a commercial district. This isn't anywhere you can spend money - this is just a residential zone."
Rhyl councillor Brian Jones shared similar reservations and proposed alternative locations for the motorhome parking.
"There are better places on the promenade to put it, for example the Quay Street car park,"
he said, further cautioning:
"If you put a motorhome park there, you'll impair the beautiful sea view that residents and visitors currently enjoy."
Council Highlights Tourism and Environmental Benefits
Denbighshire council is advancing plans to establish a network of motorhome "Aire" sites throughout the county, including the site on Marine Drive.
The proposals involve developing six locations equipped for short stays of up to two nights and providing essential services such as waste disposal and fresh water supply.
The council anticipates that these measures will mitigate environmental and social problems associated with unauthorised camping, emphasizing that the bays are intended for short-term use only.
Paul Jackson, head of highways and environmental services, commented:
"We know that the use of motorhomes has increased, especially since the 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 and provide a fantastic boost for tourism and businesses where these sites are located, once they come online."
The funding for the scheme will come from both the Welsh and UK governments.
Proposed Motorhome Parking Locations
- Quay Street, Rhyl (corner section of currently closed car park, with remaining area allocated to coach parking)
- Marine Drive (East Parade), Rhyl (small area to be allocated close to Pavilion)
- Barkby Beach, Prestatyn (lower car park adjacent to public convenience)
- Park Street, Ruthin (small section of current car park)
- Green Lane, Corwen (a small number of bays along current car park exit road)
- Mill Street, Llangollen (small section of lower car park along retaining wall to upper car park)
