A REGULAR visitor to Marine Lake in Rhyl said he had “never seen it empty like this” when he was at the site on Saturday (March 23), following the introduction of parking charges.

Car parks at both Marine Lake and Rhyl Harbour began operating with a pay and display system from Friday (March 22).

These changes were made public by Denbighshire County Council earlier this month, but one resident, who asked not to be named, said Marine Lake was noticeably quieter than usual on Saturday.

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The resident was particularly surprised by the absence of visitors given that, for many, last Saturday marked the start of the first weekend of the school Easter holidays.

He said: “I took the (above) photo on Saturday morning, before my run around the lake.

“I've almost never seen it empty like this - especially on a Saturday morning, when one could expect some dog walkers there, as well as families crabbing.”

As of March 22, the costs of parking at Marine Lake between 6am and 11pm are 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

Marine Lake comprises 43 parking spaces – 40 “regular” spots, plus three for disabled users.

There are also six marked areas for parking boat trailers only.

Earlier in March, Denbighshire County Council also increased the costs of using its car parks by up to £1.50.

Previously, 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.”

The decision, and the perceived lack of consultation prior to publicising it, has been criticised by various politicians and councillors, some of whom called for the council to reverse it.

Marine Lake is also used by Ocean Beach Water Ski Club, Rhyl Miniature Railway, Rhyl Sea Cadets and Rhyl Yacht Club.