Residents in a north Wales town strongly oppose plans to convert a cherished green space into an overnight parking area for motorhomes, fearing it will ruin the seafront’s appeal.
Denbighshire Council proposes transforming a section of Marine Drive (East Parade) in Rhyl to address unauthorized overnight stays associated with illegal camping and to enhance tourism. Locals, however, view the site as vital community land used for recreation.
Residents’ Fierce Resistance
Warren Bennett, a Marine Drive resident, describes the area as “a wonderful buffer between the sea and the housing district of Rhyl.” He emphasizes, “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 notes that the Welsh government previously designated the grassland for protection. He adds, “This isn’t a commercial district. This isn’t anywhere you can spend money – this is just a residential zone.”
Rhyl Councillor Brian Jones shares these concerns and recommends alternative locations. “There are better places on the promenade to put it, for example the Quay Street car park,” he states. “If you put a motorhome park there, you’ll impair the beautiful sea view that residents and visitors currently enjoy.”
Council’s Vision for Tourism Growth
The council advances a network of motorhome “Aire” sites across the county, including Marine Drive. Plans feature six locations offering short stays up to two nights, with amenities like waste disposal and fresh water. Officials aim to curb environmental and social problems from illegal camping, limiting bays to brief use.
Paul Jackson, head of highways and environmental services, highlights the surge in motorhome use since the pandemic’s staycation trend. “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,” he says.
The initiative receives funding from both the Welsh and UK governments.
Proposed Motorhome Parking Locations
- Quay Street, Rhyl (Corner section of currently closed car park, with remaining area for coach parking)
- Marine Drive (East Parade), Rhyl (Small area near 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)
