Charges at Pembrokeshire Coast National Park car parks are to be increased for the first time in nearly nine years. Forty out of the Park Authority's 48 car parks are free and for the remaining eight the charges were set in 1998. "The National Park Authority has reluctantly decided to increase the charges, but has little alternative in view of the limited funds available and the need to maintain both the car parks and other services," said National Park Authority chairman, Clr. Simon Hancock. "Our charges are now substantially lower than comparable car parks elsewhere in the country, and indeed many within the county. Currently there is a flat rate of £1.50 per stay. We are varying the charges slightly between car parks and are introducing short stay charges at some car parks for shoppers." The Park Authority has written to those city, town and community councils directly affected to advise of the new charges. "The increased income generated will be used to improve maintenance on our car parks and other sites. In the last year there have been significant improvements at Stack Rocks car park and major improvements are scheduled at Poppit Sands. Several others also require major surface repairs, and we also want to improve the provision of information to visitors through better signage," added Clr. Hancock. "Under the present Off Street Parking Order, the authority is only required to advertise the revised charges, but we wanted to let the communities know of the decision and the reasons behind it before notices appear in the press and on the sites. "Like all local authorities, we face inflation on rates, equipment, maintenance and on wages at a time when our core funding from the Welsh Assembly Government is less than the annual inflation increase." The new charges, to be introduced on April 1 are: At Saundersfoot, Freshwater East, Broad Haven, and Little Haven - up to one hour - 60p; up to two hours - £2; over two hours £3. At St. Davids Grove car park - up to one hour; 60p; over one hour £2. At Manorbier, Newport and Poppit Sands - £3 per stay. Charges for coaches will be reduced to £3. Weekly season tickets will be increased to £18 and full season tickets go up to £50.
