SNOWDONIA EASTER WARNING: PARK SENSIBLY... OR WE WILL TOW YOUR CARS AWAY

SNOWDONIA’S visitors have been warned the gloves will be off this Easter if they park illegally.

Motorists who disrespect parking restrictions risk having their vehicles towed away.

In a joint statement, police and council leaders said they are expecting another deluge of visitors over the Easter and summer periods.

As a result, they will be taking a tough approach to ensure Eryri’s roads do not become choked by vehicles parked illicitly, as seen on the A5 in the Ogwen Valley

recently.

Extra buses are being laid on and a new alert system is being rolled out to indicate when car parks are full. Visitors are being asked to plan ahead and to check online channels to see which areas are already full.

Gwynedd Council has been working closely with North Wales Police (NWP) and Snowdonia National Park to prepare for this year’s holiday season. It follows a rapid rise in visitor numbers in the past two years.

Dafydd Williams, head of Gwynedd Council’s environment

department, said: “We ask motorists to respect the parking restrictions and keep the roads clear and safe. There have been instances where cars have parked illegally which made it very difficult for emergency services vehicles to pass.

“Staff from North Wales Police and Gwynedd Council, who now have powers to tow vehicles away, will pay particular attention to the Eryri area. Our message is for motorists to park sensibly, but if necessary, we will take appropriate action to remove vehicles that park illegally for

public safety.”

Many of the worst parking issues occur on mountain passes, where space is at premium. Sherpa bus services have been steadily beefed up to provide an alternative.

Police and local authorities stress visitors are welcome and that Eryri has much to offer besides honeypot spots.

North Wales Police said that, where necessary, it will take “appropriate steps” to ensure the safety of local residents and visitors. Insp Arwel Hughes said: “We welcome people to the area but

ask the public to plan their visit in advance.”

Snowdonia National Park Authority is pushing for sustainable tourism and controlling transport flows is a key element of this. Bus services in the most popular areas are being increased in the peak season, and extra seasonal wardens are being employed this year.

Groups of volunteers will also be on hand across the National Park to help with litter picks and provide advice for visitors. Mr Williams urged everyone to treat them and staff with courtesy.