CAR parking charges were implemented at Abereiddy beach this Easter, in order to manage traffic to the popular spot and facilitate improvements at the beach side car park.

The beach, neighbouring Blue Lagoon and coast path are popular areas with locals, visitors and adventure sports enthusiasts.

The sea wall was taken down at the beach in 2012 and partial sea defences constructed the following year.

Since then, as a result of severe winter weather, the original beach side parking has been reduced by more than half. The surface of the remaining area is in a poor state, largely unsuitable for vehicle parking.

Last summer saw a plethora of parking problems. These included vehicles getting stuck in and damaged by the poor surface; drivers getting blocked in by inconsiderate parking traffic jams in and around the car park.

A replacement car park which opened 400 metres from the beach on the approach road to Abereiddy last year this alleviated much of the problem but didn't provide a complete solution.

This year local company Man Up UK is running both the beach side and the replacement car parks, vehicles will be redirected to the replacement facility as necessary. Charges will run from the Easter weekend until the end of October.

The money generated will pay for improvements at the beach side car park and the running costs of both car parks.

Residents within the Llanrhian Council Ward can apply for a free yearly parking pass by emailing manupukevents@gmail.com, calling 07855954702 or by visiting the beach. The passes will be available from 30th March 2018 and drivers need to provide their name, address and car registration.