Overnight Parking Ban for Motorhomes in North Yorkshire Amid Local Concerns

In response to rising concerns from locals regarding issues such as litter, illegal parking, and fires, motorhome owners will no longer be allowed to park overnight in some of North Yorkshire's scenic areas. Locations like Royal Albert Drive in Scarborough, Osgodby Hill, and Filey Road in Cayton Bay will be subject to this ban between the hours of 11 PM and 7 AM, starting from September and lasting for 18 months.

John Senior MBE, a local business owner, emphasized the challenges posed by large motorhomes that often occupy multiple parking spaces, which hinders access for day visitors. With parking in the area limited to approximately 400 to 500 spaces, the influx of motorhomes has made it difficult for tourists looking to stay for shorter periods. Senior explained that while Scarborough is generally welcoming to all visitors, the infrastructure is not equipped to support extensive overnight camping, contributing to a perception that the coastal area is becoming a free camping site.

While North Yorkshire Council insists that it is not against the motorhome community, the decision to impose the overnight parking ban has faced backlash from some vehicle owners. One motorhome owner, Steve, expressed frustration, arguing that responsible users should not be penalized due to the actions of a few troublemakers. He suggested that instead of an outright ban, local authorities should focus on enforcing regulations more effectively with on-site fines.

Kelly and Dominic Clarke, tourists who recently visited Scarborough, echoed similar sentiments, indicating that the inability to park overnight might deter future visits. They highlighted that overnight guests contribute economically to the local area through spending on meals and activities. As of September 13, Civil Enforcement Officers will begin to enforce the parking restrictions to address these ongoing concerns.