'There shouldn't be a premium to park in nature'

There are concerns about a pay and display scheme that will start next month at a beauty spot overlooking the Seven Sisters.

A year-long trial was approved at South Hill Barn car park in Seaford, East Sussex, which is currently free.

The move was made to "help address ongoing parking and congestion issues in and around the site" due to visitors and coaches, according to Seaford Town Council.

The town council said it did not know how much parking would cost yet, but that there would be a free permit scheme for Seaford residents.

"It should be free for everybody to enjoy, there shouldn't be a premium to enjoy natural areas," said Seaford resident Emma Dyer.

"Already we have to pay to access Cuckmere Haven [in the country park]. It will stop people struggling with the cost of living from coming out."

Jenny Hazelby, who also lives in the town, said: "Since Covid with people going out more, it's encouraged more visitors coming in minibuses and full size coaches which really this area can't take because of turning facilities.

"It's a truly unspoilt place, I'm not surprised it's [paying to park] on the cards."

She believed a pay and display system would help with parking issues at the site.

Nick Sterling, who was visiting from Croydon, said: "It seems like anything that's popular, they're going to charge for it. If they charge visitors, it could drive concessions away."

Kai Li, another visitor, added: "I'd prefer if it was free, if the price was reasonable I can accept it.

"For locals, they pay council tax so it should be free for them."

The trial comes after coaches were banned from coming to nearby Birling Gap in April last year.

The National Trust said it had seen a significant increase in coach visits which the site was unable to cope with.

South Hill Barn is not managed by the National Trust, but residents believe more coaches are coming to the area since the ban.

A Seaford Town Council spokesperson said: "The decision recognised the need for action ahead of the coming year and summer period to help address ongoing parking and congestion issues in and around the site.

"Parking permits for Seaford residents will be available free of charge from the Seaford Tourist Information Centre.

"Seaford Town Council will provide full details in due course on when permits will be available and how they can be collected."

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