New parking rules introduced at a Wakefield pub have prompted a mixed reaction with walkers, cyclists and customers divided over the changes.

The Stanley Ferry pub previously said that the new system had been introduced to help manage parking and ensure spaces remained available for customers.

It said the car park had been used by people who were not visiting the pub, which lead to the introduction of vehicle registration requirements.

The changes have sparked a lively discussion on social media, with some regular users of the surrounding canal and walking routes expressing concern about the impact.

On Facebook, Shane Monkman said: “I have used this car park for years when I paddleboard, cycle or walk the dog along the paths. Sometimes we call in for a drink, sometimes not. Suddenly being fined feels very draconian.”

Some commenters also questioned whether the changes could result in more vehicles parking on nearby roads.

Jo Jo commented: “So I suppose everyone will start parking on Ferry Lane then, making that road even more of a car park than what it already is. Oh well, let's see.”

Janine Raper said walking groups could also be affected. She wrote: “The Greyt Yorkshire Walkers come here usually once a month to walk the canal and backlands when the pub is closed.

"Groups like this find it increasingly difficult to find walks where you don’t have to pay for parking.”

She added: “They donate funds from their walks to a rescue charity and have their annual Christmas meal at the pub.”

Others questioned how the new arrangements would work in practice.

Nathan Hirst wrote: “We park there once a year to cycle the Wakefield wheel. We go in after and have a pint. But we set of early morning, so that will be a fine by the time we return then I assume?”

Others defended the pub's decision, arguing that it was entitled to control parking on its own land.

Paul Backhouse commented: “It’s private property. It’s for customers. It doesn’t matter if it doesn’t get full. Those empty spaces are for potential customers.”

Some people suggested alternative approaches instead. Amanda Jayne wrote: “Wouldn’t it be better to make it pay and display? Customers could get the price deducted from their bill and non customers would pay a nominal fee.”

Louise Fairbrass said: “Imagine being outraged that a pub want to ensure there are enough spaces for their customers and giving everyone the opportunity to park there by merely asking they go inside and log their registration number without asking for any money.”

Emma Telford said: “It's never full even when the pubs busting so basically instead of doing something nice and providing some spaces to people enjoying exercise and nature (who may then come and refresh themselves with a drink) they're just being greedy hoping for some fines to come rolling in.

"Literally they could just add a small pay and display charge which is refunded if you use the pub like Sainsburys in Trinity.”