Beach‑goers heading to Brean and Berrow will be able to park for free throughout the summer as part of a new initiative starting today (July 1st) aimed at boosting the local visitor economy.
Somerset Council says it has been working with Discover Brean and EDF Energy’s Hinkley Point C project to find ways of increasing footfall along the Brean coastal strip, following concerns about reduced visitor numbers after Pontins’ closure during the holiday season.
As a result, the council has received funding from EDF to allow it to lift beach parking fees from 1st July through to October, allowing visitors to enjoy the coastline without paying parking charges.
A Somerset Council spokesperson adds the move is designed to support tourism businesses at a crucial time, adding that the free parking period is expected to encourage more day‑trippers and holidaymakers to choose Brean and Berrow over the coming months.
Councillor Mike Rigby, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, said: “This is great news for Brean and Berrow. We have been working hard with our partners to find ways to support the local visitor economy and are delighted to be able to announce this initiative.“
“The area has so much to offer visitors: great beaches, a friendly welcome and now free parking.”
A spokesperson for Discover Brean said: “Brean has a wide variety of attractions, shops as well as food and drink options. It is hoped that the initiative will attract more visitors who in turn will hopefully support the businesses in the local villages.”
The Council’s Beach Team will continue to run the beaches and the number of cars allowed on either beach will not change.
