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The introduction of parking charges at The Princess Margaret Way laybys earlier this year brings Aberavon Seafront in line with many popular visitor destinations. The additional income helps support the ongoing operation and maintenance of the seafront and its facilities—ensuring the area remains clean and welcoming for residents and visitors.

There will continue to be no charges to park at the laybys between 1st October and 31st March. Blue Badge holders will continue to be able to park free of charge at any time throughout the year and without time restrictions at the laybys. 

Following feedback, the council recognises that the changes have caused frustration for some users—particularly around the lack of cash payment and short stay parking options.

In response, the council is proposing to introduce new short-stay parking tariffs at four nearby off-street car parks—Bay View, Ocean Way, Scarlet Avenue and Victoria Road—from April 1st, 2026. The proposed tariffs of £1 for one hour and £2 for two hours will support short-stay visitors to the seafront, allowing them to pay with cash using the existing pay and display machines. Payments made at the car parks are not transferrable to the laybys.

These car parks are located a short walk from the seafront and will offer an alternative for those who do not wish to use the MiPermit app or phone-based payment systems.

While installing cash payment machines directly at each layby was considered, it was not deemed feasible due to the cost of having to install multiple machines across the seafront.

To improve information about payment options along The Princess Margaret Way the council will also be seeking permission from Welsh Government to install clearer signage.

A council spokesperson said: “We’ve listened to the concerns raised since the introduction of charges and are proposing changes that aim to make parking at the seafront more accessible and easier to use. Whether you're visiting for a quick walk or a full day out, we want to make parking as simple and flexible as possible—while helping to maintain one of our county borough’s most important public spaces.”

The proposals will be considered by Cabinet on July 16th, 2025. 

Link to Cabinet report: 

https://democracy.npt.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=558&MId=12552&Ver=4