Quarry parkers spark anger
MAKESHIFT barbecues have reportedly been abandoned and chemical toilet waste from motorhomes allegedly discharged at a memorial area created to remember men who worked and died in a Gwynedd slate quarry.
In one case, locals claimed a visitor urinated on a dedication stone at the Allt Ddu memorial area near Dinorwic quarry, which is the world’s second largest slate quarry.
Rocks were placed around the circular site last year to try and prevent parking, but it is claimed those were moved over the Easter holiday.
Local man John Corrigan said he would be patrolling the site this weekend in a bid to prevent further issues.
“A converted campervan moved stones to get on,” he said. “A 4x4 camper didn’t bother and just drove over the stones and emerging spring flowers.
“I don’t understand why people would do this. It’s disgusting. Who in their right mind would do that? Not only is it disrespectful, it’s senseless”
A council spokesperson said: “Following concerns raised in the past regarding parking issues in the Allt Ddu area, the council has consulted on introducing specific parking restrictions at this location. But, due to a number of objections raised, we will not be proceeding with restrictions at present.
“However, the council is leading on a pilot project to introduce specific orders that will prevent the right of motorhomes to park overnight in lay-bys in specific locations that have seen examples of irresponsible parking and camping over the past few years. We will be monitoring this pilot and considering whether it may be a suitable option in other locations.
“Our message to those visiting Gwynedd in motorhomes and campervans is to ensure that they camp legally and support businesses by using local campsites.
“In addition, as part of efforts to ensure better management of motorhomes and campervans in the area, the council is developing ‘Arosfan’ sites which will offer an overnight location to motorhomes and campervans similar to ‘aires’. We expect the first of these sites to be available for this summer and, if successful, we will be considering whether it will be possible to provide further designated sites in the future.”