The Gwynedd beauty spot has been undergoing upgrades to help it cope with the vast number of summer tourists
A Gwynedd beach renowned for lengthy queues and vanishing cars is set to fully reopen next week. Morfa Bychan Beach – also known as Black Rock Sands – has been undergoing improvements to manage over-tourism challenges.
The vast beach near Porthmadog is among only a small number of Welsh beaches that allow drivers to bring cars, vans and motorhomes directly onto the sand. Its rapid tides and narrow access road are infamous for stranding unsuspecting motorists.
During last year’s extended dry spell an estimated 1,500 vehicles were parking on the beach during peak-season weekends. Enormous queues formed on the access road extending back two miles to Morfa Bychan village, underlining the need for enhancements. For the biggest stories in Wales first sign up to our daily newsletter her.
In February, Cyngor Gwynedd started work on an “enhanced traffic management system”. The access road is being widened to better accommodate two-way traffic, alongside which a footpath is being added for pedestrians. New signage is also being installed along with a fresh barrier system and improved disabled parking.
By improving access infrastructure, the council aims to establish a “high-quality welcoming arrival area” that will “elevate the overall visitor experience”. The local authority hopes this will “reduce the pressure and impact of tourism” at one of Gwynedd’s most popular coastal destinations.
Some residents have requested improved signage for caravans to prevent them from obstructing a narrow, winding shortcut to the beach from the A497. Others have campaigned for outdoor washing facilities and extra bins to tackle an escalating litter problem, reports North Wales Live.
Recent photographs published by the council reveal the road remains a building site. Nevertheless, the local authority is optimistic it will reopen on Wednesday, April 1.
A spokesperson said: “The improvement works have been undertaken to enhance access arrangements and ensure the entrance to the beach remains safe and suitable for continued use. Thanks to residents, local businesses and visitors for their patience and cooperation while these essential works have been carried out.”
Throughout the road’s refurbishment, standard access to the beach has been unavailable. However, it can still be accessed via a diversion: this directs traffic along Beach Road, Morfa Bychan, to the southern end of the beach. The diversion will stay in place until April 1.
Whether the improvements will reduce the number of vehicles becoming stuck in soft sand or engulfed by the sea remains to be seen. Last year approximately 30 cars and motorhomes were recovered from the popular beach after coming to a sticky end.
Parking charges will remain the same this year. It costs £8 to drive a car onto the beach for the day. For caravans and motorhomes it’s £16. Blue badge holders receive half price entry after 4pm. Payment is by card only, at the beach entrance. Fees are applicable between 1 April and 30 September – during winter, entry is free.
From 1 April, season permits will be available to purchase online, priced as follows:
- Permanent Porthmadog ward residents: Cars – £26.25; Large vehicles – £52.50.
- Permanent Gwynedd residents: Cars – £63; Large vehicles – £126.
- Non-Gwynedd residents: Cars – £84; Large vehicles – £168.








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