New parking rules at Stanley Ferry pub spark concerns over canal access
Visitors using the car park at a popular Wakefield pub to access the nearby canal towpath could face parking enforcement under new rules being introduced at the site.
The Stanley Ferry says it is introducing a new parking management system after finding that non-customers were using the car park, making it more difficult for pub customers to find a space.
Under the new arrangements, pub customers will be required to register their vehicle details on arrival. The pub says signs will explain the regulations for both customers and non-customers, with drivers who breach the rules potentially receiving an enforcement notice and fine.
Regular visitor Keith Mountford-Eddy, who has used the car park to access the canal for around 10 years, said he was concerned about the impact the changes could have on people using the towpath for leisure and exercise.
He said: "I've been going down there for around 10 years and, hand on heart, I've never been there when the pub car park has been completely full.
"The canal is one of the most scenic places in Wakefield and lots of walkers, canoeists and other visitors use the car park to access it. If people have to go into the pub to register their vehicle, it will make it much harder for some people, including me."
Mr Mountford-Eddy who said he has mobility issues, said climbing the steps into the pub to register his vehicle before starting a walk would make visiting more difficult. He also questioned how the new arrangements would work for people arriving early in the morning before the pub opens.
He added: "A lot of pubs talk about being part of the community, but this feels like it's stopping people enjoying the location. It's not just about the possibility of a fine – it's about making it harder for people to come here for a walk or some leisure time."
A spokesperson for the Stanley Ferry said: "We want our customers to be able to park in our car park when they visit us. On some occasions, however, we have found that non-guests are using the car park so spaces become scarcer for customers. To overcome this, we are introducing a new parking system in partnership with third parties. Importantly, parking continues to be free of charge for our pub customers."
They added that the pub was in discussions with local representatives to introduce a system that "protects genuine guest parking, whilst also ensuring space continues to be available for locals visiting the area".