Motorhomes and campervans face massive blow as motion passes to ban vehicles parking overnight

The new hours, which came into force yesterday, come after numerous complaints by residents who were concerned about the increasing number of vehicles during the summer months damaging the wildlife and causing pollution.

Council officers will also consider rolling out dedicated overnight motorhome spaces at sites in Linkfield and Whitesands, Dunbar, and Prestonpans.

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Councillor John McMillan said: “While it is no surprise that people are attracted to our beautiful beaches and want to stay close by, these are wild spaces, and the majority do not have the infrastructure or facilities of a formal campsite to support overnight visitors.

“The arrangements have been brought in to balance the desire for people to visit coastal sites with our need to conserve these special areas for everyone, including the species that call them home.

“East Lothian is fortunate to have a number of campsites where touring guests can base themselves, enjoying all that the county has to offer while supporting local businesses and our economy.”

At a recent council meeting, the cabinet heard how continued activity by motorhomes and other vehicles has caused damage to the biodiversity of the protected natural spaces, which also happen to be key tourism areas.

The council stated that the popular sites have suffered from disturbance and erosion through the lighting of fires and barbeques, increased litter and emptying of waste products.

In January last year the authority approved temporary overnight parking restrictions from 10pm to 6am in its coastal car parks.

But after seeing the increase in demand for some form of parking provision, it also created dedicated motorhome spaces available for overnight parking in coastal car parks across Yellowcraig, Dirleton, and Shore Road, Dunbar. These parking spots were available to purchase at a cost of £10 per vehicle, per night.

Most car parks along the coast are subject to traffic regulations orders and require drivers to pay a charge.

The new parking measures have not been met with mixed support from drivers, however with some in favour and others furious.

One person shared: “It’s a pity the council have to take this action to protect the environment due to inconsiderate human idiots camping, leaving mess and destroying habitats. Easiest way to stop people going is banning vehicles getting close.”

Another person shared: “People just want to be free. To drive, to park, to stay wherever they want to. Not a bad thing. Most EU country’s allow such freedom as it’s an acceptable thing to do.”

Parking costs can vary depending on location but are roughly £3 per day with tickets able to be purchased from the on-site "pay and display" ticket machines or with cashless payments using RingGo.

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There are four parking holidays in the calendar year where parking is free of charge. These are Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day and January 2. Blue Badge holders are not currently required to pay parking charges.