Seaside Town Struggles with Motorhome Influx Amid Local Dissent

A seaside community is facing challenges due to a growing number of motorhomes that are settling along the main thoroughfare without proper toilet facilities. Last year, the council's attempt to impose a ban on overnight parking along Marine Parade in Saltburn-by-the-Sea was scrapped after receiving objection letters from tourists across various countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, and Papua New Guinea. Residents report that this year the influx of campervans has surged, and with the upcoming school holidays, there are worries that local businesses may be impacted by limited parking availability due to the large number of motorhomes occupying the area. A recent visit by the Daily Express noted 58 motorhomes parked at night, with more arriving by morning.

Opinions among local businesses are mixed; while some believe that the tourists contribute positively to the economy by spending in shops and restaurants, others view the campervans as unsightly and argue that many visitors come prepared with their own supplies, leaving little economic impact. One visitor, Adrian from York, shared how camping fees elsewhere compel them to take advantage of the free parking opportunity at Saltburn, appreciating the local toilets and the beachfront. Another tourist, Tom from Scotland, mentioned his first visit sparked by online mentions of the area, expressing surprise at the lack of charges for parking and noting the area's cleanliness.

Conversely, visitors like Brian Smythe from Leeds have expressed frustration with the motorhomes taking up parking spaces, particularly affecting those with mobility issues. Having spent money on an AirBnB, Smythe finds it disheartening that motorhome users are able to enjoy the same amenities for free, creating a sense of unfairness in supporting the local economy. The local council has faced scrutiny for halting plans to restrict overnight camping in public spaces, with independent council members critiquing the administration for neglecting residents' concerns about traffic and parking issues along Marine Parade.

Although previous proposals aimed to create over 100 new parking spaces and enforce overnight parking bans, they were abandoned following significant opposition, heavily populated by non-residents signing the petition. Council leader Alec Brown defended the decision, citing the positive tourism feedback and asserting that it would be counterproductive to deter visitors who contribute to the local economy. Meanwhile, independent council member Mr. Hannaway expressed that residents do not want to experience summer as a "free campervan park" amid the noise and waste generated by this influx.