Call for reduced rate parking for workers in Northumberland tourism hotspot

It follows Northumberland County Council’s introduction of parking charges in Bamburgh’s main car park in August.

There are also parking restrictions in many parts of the village, leaving some workers with no option but to pay for parking.

The issue was raised by Bamburgh Parish Council chairman Barbara Brook at its November meeting.

“We have no concessions,” she said. “Wouldn’t it be a good idea if we could have a reduced rate for employees of the hotels and shops?

“It would be nice for Bamburgh if workers had that extra incentive.”

Coun Kirsty Dobson added: “We couldn’t get staff last summer. If they are having to pay to park their car when their wages probably aren’t fabulous anyway it’s not much of an incentive for them.”

Coun Guy Renner-Thompson, county councillor for Bamburgh ward, responded: “It is possible to buy a year-long pass which is far cheaper than paying every day. That’s what I would recommend to any businesses which want parking for their staff. That’s what we tell businesses in Seahouses to do and a lot of them do.”

He also said that if a reduced rate was introduced in Bamburgh then the council would have to do the same across the whole county. However, he said he would ask the question.

The parish council has previously called for extra car parking in the village, naming greenfield land near the Mizen Head and The Wynding as a possible site.

Calls for more parking in popular Northumberland coastal village as...