The consultation for a pilot scheme allowing overnight stays at nine car parks in the South Hams will close at 5pm today.

The proposed 12-month trial will allow self-contained motorhomes and camper vans to stay at the allocated car parks for two nights consecutively with no return within 48 hours.

The council suggests stays would be at certain car parks for self-contained motorhomes and camper-vans only for an overnight fee of £15 per night at Slapton, Torcross and North Sands, Salcombe.

The remaining sites would be priced at £10 overnight from 6pm until 9am.

The scheme aims to improve tourism, which the council says is particularly important, following the recent covid pandemic and the growing trend of the ’staycation’.

The council also hopes that the scheme will help to boost the local economy.

The car parks in the following towns across the district will be included in the pilot scheme:

Ivybridge, Leonards Car Park

Kingsbridge, Quay Car Park Southern Area Only

Kingsbridge, Cattlemarket Car Park

Modbury, Poundwell Meadow Overflow Car Park

Totnes, Longmarsh Car Park

Dartmouth, Park & Ride Car Park

Slapton, Memorial Car Park

Torcross Tank Car Park – coach bays only

North Sands, Salcombe

Following considerable demand for overnight parking by motorhomes at the Memorial car park in Slapton, the Council would like to manage effectively the overnight sleeping.

The council propose that the height barrier at the site is raised to allow self-contained motorhomes and camper vans, with onboard toilet facilities, to sleep overnight within the car park.

SHDC states that: "If antisocial behaviour happens during the trial at this car park, the council will replace the height barrier and prevent overnight sleeping without notice or further consultation."

The scheme has so far polarised residents and local councils, with opponents arguing it will create more rubbish and prevent access to car parks for local residents.

To have your say email: [email protected].