Agenda item

To receive the report of the Head of Communities & Places

Written Notice of Motion from Councillor Ford

From next Easter, I propose that specific area is allocated for camper/mobile homes. I would suggest the area currently where there are recycle bins, immediately in the car park on the left. By my calculation, I think we could allow a maximum of 12. I would also suggest increasing the fee to £15 per night and only one overnight stay per visit. In conclusion, this would alleviate the problem of them blocking the footpaths, which is the only safe route through the car park for many, especially those using pushchairs and wheelchairs

RESOLVED:

That Members approve the alternative proposal for the zonal restriction of camper van parking as set out in the report with an increase to £15 per night, and approve a maximum two-night stay to be applicable to Churchfields car park, and authorise officers to seek amendment to the Off-street Parking Places Order as necessary

Councillor Wiseman declared an interest as a campsite owner. He took no part in the discussion or vote.

The Head of Communities and Place presented the report the purpose of which was to consider the following written notice of motion proposed by Councillor Ford and referred to this committee by Full Council.

From next Easter, I propose that specific area is allocated for camper/mobile homes. I would suggest the area currently where there are recycle bins, immediately in the car park on the left. By my calculation, I think we could allow a maximum of 12. I would also suggest increasing the fee to £15 per night and only one overnight stay per visit. In conclusion, this would alleviate the problem of them blocking the footpaths, which is the only safe route through the car park for many, especially those using pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Within the recommendation the Head of Communities and Place advised that the first recommendation should read – That Members consider whether to approve or reject the notice of motion.

The Chair invited Councillor Ford to speak on his Notice of Motion.

A discussion then took place with the following comments and concerns raised:

·         Good report.

·         Campervan owners park along the front of the car park by the water’s edge as this area gives an excellent view across the water. This area should be restricted with adequate signage put in place.

·         Two-night maximum stay is preferred as one night is not long enough.

·         TDC cannot been seen to be in competition with local campsites.

·         Need an alternative site.

·         £8 per night is not enough, should be £12 - £15 a night.

·         Needs to be controlled/monitored better with flexible working hours for Civil Enforcement Officers.

Following queries from Councillor Bright the Head of Communities & Place confirmed the following:

·         This Notice of Motion only applies to Churchfields Car Park in Appledore and not any other car parks across Torridge District Council area that allow overnight Campervan parking.

·         Campfires and barbeques are not permitted within the rules of Car Parks.

·         Councillor Ford proposed a zonal area for campervan parking however if not agreed then campervans could park in the rest of the car park apart from the proposed restricted zone.

The Chief Executive confirmed that a review will be carried out with regards to the shift times of the Civil Enforcement Officers as campervans arrive after they have finished and leave before they start.

Following a query from Councillor Laws the Head of Communities & Place advised that TDC could investigate as to whether Northam Burrows could be brought within the parking order to give more enforcement powers. Wilkey Fields car park could not be used for campervans as there is a covenant in place prohibiting overnight stays.

During normal day time hours, the normal car parks rules would apply.

It was proposed by Councillor Bushby, seconded by Councillor Lock and –

Resolved:

1.    That Members approve the notice of motion, and,

2.    Approve the alternative proposal for the zonal restriction of camper van parking as set out in the report with an increase to £15 per night, and;

3.    Approve a maximum two-night stay to be applicable to Churchfields car park, and;

4.    Authorise officers to seek amendment to the Off-street Parking Places Order as necessary

A recorded vote was taken.

(Vote:  For 10, Against 1)