Councillors have banned motorhomes from a popular seaside destination after caravans “dominated the promenade”. Last week, East Suffolk Council confirmed the introduction of ‘cars only’ parking bays as part of a new Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (TRO).
It comes after concerns were raised that larger vehicles were parking on the pavement, causing damage and obstructing the path around the busy promenade in Felixstowe. Officials have confirmed that alternative parking for larger vehicles such as campervans and motorhomes will be made available. Cllr Paul West, Suffolk County Council Cabinet member for Operational Highways and Flooding said it was time the “ongoing issue” was solved.
Felixstowe Town Council and East Suffolk Council pushed for the TRO which will come into effect from July.
He added: “They have identified this as an ongoing issue along one of our attractive coastal roads in Suffolk for some time, whereby campervans have been able to dominate the promenade, damaging the footways and limiting opportunities for residents and visitors to access the beachfront easily.”
However, the decision has angered many motorhome owners with one even describing the move as “discrimination”.
Campervan owner Gayle Myers-Drake even told the BBC many would not return to the beach due to the new policy.
She said: “I can understand them putting in an overnight ban and charging for car parking spaces but to do a complete ban is discrimination.
“Why would people want to go to Felixstowe when they are treated in this way?”
Officials have also confirmed that there will also be dedicated parking bays close to the beach for disabled badge holders.
Meanwhile, new designated motorcycle parking bays will also be introduced as part of the updates.
Cllr Tim Wilson, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Economic Development and Transport, stressed the decision had been made after complaints from residents.
He said: “These road improvements, which directly address concerns raised by the local community, will provide more parking spaces for cars and motorcycles, as well as additional parking for drivers with disabilities.
“Undercliff Road East is unsuitable for the high volume of large vehicles which visit during the summer months and these layout changes will encourage these vehicles, including campervans and motorhomes, to find alternative parking.
“Not only will these improvements reduce the impact of large vehicles parking in this area but will also create additional parking opportunities for car drivers, including those with disabilities who may have a greater need to park closer to their destination.”