North Norfolk parking fee hike tourism concerns raised

North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) is considering raising parking fees at 30 car parks.

The proposal has met strong opposition in the form of a parish council chairwoman who fears it may put people off visiting the coast.

Parking prices could rise at some of Norfolk's most-visited beaches (Image: Denise Bradley)

Bev Reynolds, Chair of Mundesley Parish Council said: "We are a thriving tourist destination and of course any increase in the charges is not welcome.

"We can only hope that it does not put visitors off using the Mundesley Beach Road car park, as the village relies on tourism and is an all-year-round destination for holidaymakers and day trippers. 

"If the charges do rise, which is almost inevitable, I hope NNDC consider this and take it into account when it comes to them calculating their council tax increase for 2025/26, bearing in mind it went up by the maximum amount for 2024/25."

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The MP for North Norfolk said he hoped that the district council would make a fair decision to ensure car parks remain affordable. 

Steffan Aquarone said: "Accessible parking is essential for both local residents and visitors who travel from across the country to share our beautiful North Norfolk coastline.

"I trust that, following the current review, a fair decision will be reached that will ensure our car parks will remain well maintained and affordable for those who use them." 

Beach huts on Mundesley beach (Image: Newsquest)The move is being considered by North Norfolk District Council in a bid to raise £600,000 a year to help the cash strapped council plug a £1.8m deficit.

The increases proposed include raising the price to park by between 10p and 30p per hour, with changes also to 24-hour and 7-day charges.

It is also looking at shutting some of its public toilets.