The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
New seafront motorhome rules blasted
Motorhome owners say new rules for an Arbroath hotspot could drive visitors away and cost the town dearly this summer.
It comes after Inchcape Park, near the town’s harbour, became a victim of its own popularity.
There are now regularly 20 to 30 motorhomes on the stretch between Gayfield Park and the Signal Tower museum.
Their owners say they are pumping hundreds of pounds into the local economy on every visit.
But there have been complaints the situation is out of control, with as many as 50 motorhomes parked some weekends.
Signs are going up within days to limit the area they can park in and a one-night limit on stopovers.
But motorhome owners claim it sends out a message they are not welcome in Arbroath.
And Angus Council admits it is relying on visitors to stay just a single night and self-police.
James and Sandra McEachern, from Leven, say the spot is perfect for stopping off at and often stay a couple of nights every few weeks.
Sandra was born in the nearby Signal Tower when it was the shore station for the Bell Rock on which her father was a lighthouse keeper.
“It’s special to me, but we love it here anyway, it’s lovely looking out to sea,” she said.
The couple, in their 70s, admit the free parking is a bonus but they would happily pay if there were facilities.
“Since lockdown it’s become ridiculous – the cost of pitches at sites everywhere has gone up and they are all booked up,” she added.
“There’s no bother here. There’s never any litter, even though there aren’t many bins.”
James said: “We are always out for meals or spending in the shops.
“If you’re getting something for nothing by being able to stop here then you should definitely be giving something back.”
Paul Smith is originally from the West Midlands, but sold up when he retired and now he and his wife live a life on the open road.
“We love Arbroath and I’d like to settle here, but for now we use it as a base,” said the 66-year-old.
“I’ve been coming her for about three years and the people are so friendly.
“I’ve seen some of the comments on Facebook, and 99% of the folk have no problem with the motorhomes. They know how much it is bringing to the town.
“But I have seen the comments referring to us as freeloaders and scum. I spend over £200 a week in Arbroath when we’re here.”
An Angus Council spokesman said: “While Angus Council will continue to monitor the use of the area during the summer months, we anticipate any visitors using the site will be supportive of following the self-enforcing guidance provided.”