Vandalism against motorhome parking ban signs impacted trial

​North Yorkshire Council is currently considering the future of a ban on parking motorhomes overnight on parts of the coast following an “overwhelming” number of objections.

​An Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO) was introduced to restrict overnight parking at Sandsend, Royal Albert Drive, and Cayton Bay after NYC said the number of motorhomes had reached an “unacceptable level”.

​However, the council will only be able to use data gathered from two locations – Sandsend and Royal Albert Drive – as signs at Cayton Bay were subjected to vandalism.

​Cayton Bay, with its wide sweeping bay, a year-round dog-friendly beach, clean water, and affordable parking is “a magnet for holidaymakers and is a beautiful place to explore, no matter what time of the year you decide to visit”, North Yorkshire’s tourism website promises.

​According to a council report, not all visitors attracted to the ‘magnet for holidaymakers’ were impressed by the ban on overnight parking.

​“Members will note that the original ETRO included a third site at Cayton Bay south of Scarborough.

​“Unfortunately, due to episodes of vandalism to the signage, we were unable to obtain an appropriate period with the regulation in place to have a meaningful trial of the prohibition here,” a report presented to councillors states.

​The report goes on to state that “as mentioned above, we were unable to commence the ETRO in Cayton Bay due to persistent external factors”.

​Ahead of the order expiring in May, the council has been carrying out consultations to find a way forward.

​Since its introduction, thousands of residents have reportedly also complained about the “displacement effects” of the order and a decision on its future will be made this spring.

​The council’s report stated that “motor caravans are as welcome at seafront parking locations as any other vehicle in the daytime, but extended stays, which usually include overnight parking, restrict the ability of other visitors to find suitable parking when visiting the area for recreation”.

​Fire safety concerns have also been a key consideration, according to the council, which noted that the Fire Authority “has received a number of complaints and attended incidents on the Marine Drive and Royal Albert Drive, and has concerns with regard to fire spread”.

​Members of the Scarborough and Whitby Area Committee are set to discuss the issue at a meeting in Whitby on Monday, March 2.