Motorists using Saundersfoot harbour’s car park have shared their anger at being caught out by the facility’s new ANPR camera system - operating 24 hours a day, with many also highlighting confusion over whether there is a ‘grace period’ for those entering the site.

Drivers entering the seaside car park have been warned to be on the watch out if they’re thinking of pulling up to enjoy the seaside view for a short while, as a newly introduced enforcement system in operation, could see them caught out with a £100 fine, as parking enforcement is now undertaken and managed by Britannia Parking.

Saundersfoot harbour car parking
Drivers entering the seaside car park have been warned to be on the watch out if they’re thinking of pulling up to enjoy the seaside view for a short while (Observer pic)

“There is a new system in operation and if you’re using the car park, please make sure you purchase a ticket!” warned county councillor for the village’s south ward Cllr Chris Williams recently.

Anyone issued with a fine has the option to raise a dispute or any mitigating circumstances with the firm directly, with contact details for Britannia Parking included on each of the enforcement signs around the car park.

However, many boat users have queried whether there is a grace period to gain access to their moorings. Some have sought clarification to be told by harbour staff that it is 20 minutes, whilst others insist that if your vehicle enters the car park for longer than 10 minutes, without purchasing a ticket, you will receive notice of a hefty fine in the post.

“I have asked more than once for a simple answer to a simple question - how long is the ‘grace period’ the harbour has agreed with the parking company so we can all know if you have one minute to drop or collect someone for work or if you have five?” one local resident posted on Facebook.

Saundersfoot harbour parking sign
(Observer pic)

“What about guests driving to the marine centre to drop off their luggage when they check in. That’s what will make the company thousands of pounds this summer and ruin a lot of holidays when visitors receive their tickets on returning home.

“Anyone launching boats, fuelling boats, collecting trailers, dropping off kayaks, picking up workers at the end of the day are all money making opportunities with this new charge.

“I feel most for the older people or those with mobility issues who drive down late in the evening and purchase fish and chips - to take away. They now have to pay to park. It’s all just an opportunity for money. Greed!” they added.