MEMBERS of Kingsbri-dge and Salcombe Chamber of Commerce have raised serious concerns over lost revenue in Salcombe, due to the the newly installed height restriction on the access to the park and ride field.

James Spencer, vice chairman of the Kingsbridge and Salcombe Chamber, contacted the Gazette with an estimate that each week in July, up to 100 vehicles have been unable to access the park and ride due to the height restriction.

The vehicles, he said, included camper vans, mobile homes, cars with roof bars and storage boxes.

The chamber suggests that as many as 400 visitors are being lost each week.

With a ‘modest visitor spend of £35 per person,’ the members estimate the cost to the town’s economy to be as much as £182,000 over the summer months.

But Salcombe Town Council has hit back saying there has always been a sign saying ‘no vans’ in the park and ride field, and that parking provision in South Hams Council’s Creek car park could accommodate those vehicles that couldn’t access the park and ride.

Gill Claydon, town clerk, said: ‘It was important to deal with previous use by heavy vehicles causing damage to the car park surface.

‘A few vans were abusing the area by not paying for overnight staying and leaving debris for the town council to clear up.

‘Rest assured, we are not saying that the majority of camper vans or mobile homes are irresponsible, but that it is the few that spoil things.’

Paul Pedrick, owner of West End Garage, opposite the park and ride, said: ‘I speak to people every day complaining that they can no longer visit the town.’

‘The park and ride was supposed to ease traffic in the town.’

‘Now these vehicles will either drive into the town, causing further congestion, or drive on to place where they can park.’