In a significant development within Pembrokeshire, a proposed trial scheme known as “Pembs Stop,” designed to facilitate overnight motorhome and campervan parking at selected car parks, is facing potential cancellation.
The scheme initially received backing from the Pembrokeshire County Council’s cabinet in February, targeting locations like North Beach in Tenby and Goodwick Moor in Goodwick for an 18-month trial period starting in July.
The council set the overnight parking fee at £10 and emphasized that the initiative was not intended to convert these areas into campsites. Regulations would prohibit external storage of LPG bottles or furniture, and no camping waste or recycling points would be provided.
This trial was positioned as a straightforward, economical solution for motorhome tourists wishing to explore the region, as reported by the Western Telegraph.
However, the proposal quickly stirred controversy among local tourism operators. Phil Davies, owner of Hungerford Farm Touring Caravan and Motorhome Park, expressed significant concerns, suggesting that the trial could lead to decreased visitor numbers to traditional camping sites, potentially resulting in job losses.
His views were echoed by other local business owners who felt threatened by the potential competition the government-backed parking spots would introduce.
The backlash was not limited to business owners. Visit Pembrokeshire, the official tourism body for the county, also raised alarms about the undue strain this scheme might place on local infrastructure, particularly public toilets which could see increased use by campers looking to dispose of waste.
This aspect was particularly problematic as motorhome users are encouraged to travel empty to save fuel, compounding local service use.
In response to growing dissent, the matter was escalated to the council’s policy and pre-decision scrutiny committee following a motion led by Conservative Group leader Councillor Di Clements.
The committee saw an “unholy coalition” of Labour, Conservative, and Plaid Cymru members voicing unified opposition to the trials. Each councillor presented strong reservations about the trials’ impact on their respective wards, with concerns over business impacts and site suitability leading the discussions.
Councillor Marc Tierney of Narberth cited ongoing issues with the capacity at the Townsmoor car park, making it a poor candidate for the trial. Concurrently, Councillor Michael Williams of Tenby opposed the initiative on the grounds that it conflicted with local business interests, describing the potential setup as a “backwards step” for the community.
Despite these objections, there was a solitary voice of support from Councillor Pat Davies, who believed that her area, Goodwick, could benefit from such a scheme. She suggested that the trial could enhance the accessibility of Pembrokeshire to motorhome tourists, potentially bringing economic benefits.
Councillor Rhys Sinnett attempted to find a middle ground, proposing the exclusion of Narberth and Tenby from the trial while considering other locations like Milford Haven as more suitable alternatives. This suggestion aimed to balance the evident community concerns with the potential benefits of increased tourist access.
As the debate continues, the future of the “Pembs Stop” scheme hangs in balance, with the cabinet set to reconsider the proposal based on the scrutiny committee’s feedback.
This issue not only highlights the challenges of local government in fostering tourism while supporting existing businesses but also underscores the complexity of community dynamics in public policy decision-making.
The Pembrokeshire motorhome parking trial illustrates the critical need for comprehensive consultation and evaluation processes in public initiatives, especially those affecting robust sectors such as tourism.
As the council revisits the drawing board, the outcome will likely serve as a precedent for similar policies nationwide, emphasizing the importance of aligning local government actions with the broader community and economic interests.