A popular English tourist attraction has introduced parking charges that visitors have branded 'ridiculous', with some vowing never to return. Northumberlandia near Cramlington, Northumberland, which attracts over 100,000 visitors annually, will install ANPR cameras later this year to enforce the new fees.
Free parking to end
Currently, drivers can park free of charge at the site, with an encouraged voluntary donation of £2 per vehicle to help maintain the facilities. The new charges have sparked concern among residents who fear the decision will deter visitors who rely on cars to access the walking routes.
A local resident told ChronicleLive: 'What I really take exception to, it was originally built for local people to be able to access and now that’s being shut off for us. The only way to go there safely is by car, I think it’s ridiculous they’re putting charges on. It’s a great danger having to walk down a 50/60mph road with no footpath.'
Other visitors expressed their anger, with one saying: 'I’d never go back,' and another stating they would 'give it a miss'.
Council and Land Trust respond
A spokesperson for Cramlington Town Council said: 'Northumberlandia is a valued community asset and an important contributor to the local visitor economy, and the Council would ask that careful consideration be given to any measures that may deter public access to the site. The Council also wishes to draw attention to the potential for unintended consequences arising from the introduction of parking charges. There is a reasonable concern that visitors seeking to avoid charges may instead make use of the parking facilities belonging to neighbouring businesses.'
Sarah Palgrave-Neath, head of estates for the north and the Land Trust, explained the decision: 'After long and hard consideration, and many discussions with our partners at Northumberlandia, reluctantly, we have taken the decision to introduce low parking charges at the site at some point later this year. We recognise this may be unwelcome news to some visitors, however, introducing parking charges will help generate essential funds to support the upkeep, accessibility, and long-term sustainability of the site. We will be ensuring parking rates are as reasonable as possible as well as making annual passes available. Full details will be confirmed closer to the time.'
