DENBIGHSHIRE County Council has said it took the decision to bring in parking charges at a popular lake in Rhyl following a “wider review” into car park fees across the region.

Car parks at both Marine Lake and Rhyl Harbour will operate with a pay and display system from Friday, March 22.

But a number of politicians and councillors had criticised a perceived lack of consultation from the local authority on the matter, saying that they first learnt of it through social media.

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Asked by the Journal to clarify the consultation process which led to this decision, a council spokesperson said: “The new car parking charges at Marine Lake are being introduced as part of the council’s wider review into car parking charges across the county.

“We understand that residents are disappointed that we are introducing these charges at a car park that was previously free.

“However, due to budgetary pressures currently being faced by the council, it is no longer feasible for us to be able to keep this car park open free of charge.”

Per a letter shown to the Journal, the costs of parking at Marine Lake from March 22 will be as follows:

March to October

  • One hour - £1.50
  • Four hours - £4.00
  • All day - £5.00

November to February

  • One hour - £1.00
  • Four hours - £1.50
  • All day - £3.00

This move follows Denbighshire County Council increasing the costs of using its car parks earlier this month by as much as £1.50.

Marine Lake is regularly used by joggers and dog walkers, and by groups such as Ocean Beach Water Ski Club, Rhyl Miniature Railway, Rhyl Sea Cadets and Rhyl Yacht Club.

Gareth Davies, Vale of Clwyd MS, said: “Nobody seemed to know about this via any official council channels.

“They haven't contacted myself about it, nor seemed to consult local councillors, which is very concerning.

“There will be a lot of opposition to it, as it's generally agreed that we need to be encouraging people to come to Rhyl, not putting them off.”

James Davies, Vale of Clwyd MP, said he was “disappointed” by the decision and would raise his concerns with the council.

He added: "I am also concerned that there appears to have been no consultation about these charges, which come into effect next week.

"I, like members of the public and local councillors, learnt of the introduction of the fees through social media.”

Cllrs Joan Butterfield and Alan James, of the Rhyl West ward in which Marine Lake is situated, also said they would contest the decision.

“As the ward member, I am in contact with Denbighshire County Council, and hope this car park has been included by error,” Cllr Butterfield said.

“The officer that seems to have announced this forgot to consult with the voluntary workers that use this small car park.”