RSPB to appeal over pay and display bid

THE RSPB intends to appeal against Anglesey Council’s refusal for planning permission to install pay and display meters at a popular beauty spot.

Going against the advice of officers, Anglesey Council’s planning committee turned down the controversial bids by the RSPB to install meters at Elin’s Tower and the visitor’s centre car parks at South Stack near Holyhead.

Despite officers warning that the committee’s only consideration should be the merits of the meter itself – and not necessarily its impact – most members rejected such calls and were adamant it would negatively impact on the local community.

However, the RSPB has now confirmed its intention of appealing, saying it is needed to make the site financially sustainable. It has also confirmed it will no longer seek a flat parking fee, deciding to implement a staggered pricing structure.