With machines only partially operational and tensions rising, many fear the new rules risk undermining the very tourism the council says it wants to protect.
The seaside town of Aberystwyth in west Wales (Image: Getty)
Business owners in Aberystwyth fear a new £3.50 on-street parking charge on the seaside town’s promenade will drive away visitors and cripple trade. The charges, which began on May 18, require drivers to pay £3.50 for two hours or £5 for four hours between 8am and 8pm on previously free stretches of the seafront.
Ceredigion Council has acknowledged a delay in rolling out the system due to software problems with some parking machines and hopes to resolve the issues by Tuesday. Council leaders insist the fees will manage high demand more fairly, free up spaces for short-stay visitors, and ultimately attract more tourists rather than deter them.
They state the fees are not primarily intended to raise revenue, though any income will support services and car park maintenance. Councillor Gareth Davies, cabinet member for finance, cited surveys from other towns showing no negative impact on businesses or visitors from similar schemes.
He noted some drivers had previously occupied prime promenade spots for days, blocking access for others wanting a quick visit.
Yet local traders warn the charges could prove damaging. Keith Wenham described parking as already stressful and said app or phone payments add extra hassle, particularly for older people.
Nia Roberts, who runs two businesses on the promenade, told the BBC regular local customers — many pensioners who come daily for coffee — have told her the extra daily cost is unaffordable.
Ms Roberts said: “It’ll have a negative effect.” Staff working late shifts also face longer walks to free parking after dark, raising safety concerns for younger employees.
Gareth Evans, owner of seafront hotel Gwesty Cymru, which lacks its own parking, fears it will hit bookings. Guests now face immediate charges for limited-stay spaces unsuitable for overnight stays. He said: “It’s another reason to get people out of the town centre.”
Business owners had urged a compromise: free but time-limited parking. They argue the town is already struggling with shop closures and high business rates.
Visitor and resident reactions were mixed. Some welcomed an end to all-day free parking, but more expressed concern. Lynn Phillips highlighted the pressure on staff wages, while day-tripper Alison Warren called it unfair on local businesses.
Janek from Pembrokeshire predicted limited impact on tourists but a hit to the community, noting a simple coffee trip could now cost £10 with parking.
The scheme, discussed for years, was approved in January 2026 after proposals in 2023. Comparable charges already operate in other Welsh coastal towns such as Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, and Rhyl. Blue Badge holders remain exempt.
The council points to other free parking options in the town for up to three hours. Mr Davies hopes the changes will ensure spaces turn over more quickly, giving tourists confidence they can find a spot and spend time — and money — in Aberystwyth.
However, with the machines only partially operational and tensions rising, many fear the new rules risk undermining the very tourism the council says it wants to protect. Business leaders say they will monitor the impact closely in the crucial summer season ahead.