Scarborough Looks for New Approach to Motorhome Parking to Support Tourism, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 23, 2025

Scarborough, which lies on the North Yorkshire coast and has long been a resort town, has recently been at the heart of controversy over motorhome parking in the town. Under the initiative introduced in November 2024, motorhomes are banned from parking overnight along the seaside front in Scarborough. However, this initiative has triggered some anger from parents in the resort town as it has had a particular impact on motorhome holidays.

The Motivation Behind the Ban and Its Initial Impact
The ban was introduced following a significant increase in complaints from local residents about the growing number of motorhomes parking overnight in key tourist areas, such as Royal Albert Drive, Sandsend, Raithwaite, Osgodby Hill, and Filey Road at Cayton Bay. Authorities voiced concerns about fire safety, particularly due to the close proximity of vehicles, and problems related to littering and improper waste disposal along the seafront.

However, the ban, which restricts motorhome parking from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., has created a shift that has now affected residential areas in Scarborough. According to local reports, the issue has not been resolved as expected. Instead, campervans are now migrating to quieter residential streets, exacerbating noise pollution, creating waste disposal problems, and leading to increased tension between residents and tourists.

The Community’s Response: A Call for Balanced Solutions
Scarborough Town Council has voiced strong opposition to the blanket ban, citing several unintended consequences. In a letter sent by the council’s Community and Place Committee, they stated that the current policy has failed to address the core issues and instead displaced motorhomes into areas with fewer enforcement resources. The result has been greater disruption in residential neighborhoods and no clear resolution to the concerns originally raised by the ban.

Councilor Sarah Mason proposed several alternative solutions, including controlled overnight parking for a fee, designated campervan zones, and a permit or licensing system for motorhome users. These suggestions aim to strike a balance between the needs of residents and the interests of the tourism sector. The council emphasized the importance of developing a system that would support the continued flow of tourists to the region without causing undue hardship to local communities.

Tourism’s Role and Economic Impact
Motorhome tourism is an essential part of Scarborough’s tourism economy, which depends on visitors who prefer more flexible, cost-effective accommodation options. The ban on motorhome parking has led to decreased foot traffic in some areas and has affected local businesses that cater to motorhome travelers. Restaurants, shops, and service stations in the vicinity of popular campervan spots have reported a downturn in business as a result of the policy.

Tourists arriving by campervans contribute to the local economy not only by spending money on accommodation but also on dining, fuel, and local attractions. With the ban in place, many potential visitors are now choosing alternative destinations where motorhome parking is more accessible, resulting in lost revenue for businesses that rely on this type of tourism.

In a bid to protect the town’s tourism industry, the council has called for a more inclusive approach to managing overnight parking. By introducing a more regulated system, they hope to ensure that both the needs of tourists and the welfare of residents are adequately addressed.

Finding a Sustainable Balance: The Future of Motorhome Tourism in Scarborough
As Scarborough moves toward the end of the trial period for the motorhome parking ban, the focus will shift to gathering feedback and evaluating the policy’s long-term effects. The current trial is set to last up to 18 months, with the final decision expected by May 2026. In the meantime, it is essential for the council to take into account the economic value of motorhome tourism, the potential benefits of a more balanced approach, and the need for more sustainable practices.

One solution being explored is the establishment of designated campervan parking zones. These areas could be strategically located in less disruptive parts of the town, ensuring that both visitors and residents are able to coexist peacefully. Additionally, introducing a small fee for overnight parking could help generate revenue to fund local infrastructure improvements, such as enhanced waste disposal facilities and better policing of the areas.

The success of these proposed solutions hinges on collaboration between local authorities, tourism stakeholders, and residents. The goal is to ensure that Scarborough remains an attractive destination for motorhome visitors while preserving the quality of life for local residents.

The Broader Implications for UK Tourism
Scarborough’s motorhome parking ban is not just an isolated issue—it’s part of a broader conversation about sustainable tourism practices in the UK. As more people turn to van life and motorhome holidays, towns across the country are grappling with the need to balance the benefits of tourism with the challenges of managing growing visitor numbers. The Scarborough case offers valuable lessons on how to manage tourism in a way that benefits both visitors and local communities.

As more local councils consider similar measures, it will be crucial to implement systems that are both fair and sustainable. The rise of eco-friendly and low-impact tourism, including motorhome travel, highlights the need for more thoughtful, inclusive strategies that support local economies while also safeguarding communities and their quality of life.

A Path Forward for Scarborough and Motorhome Tourism

The outcome of the ban on motorhome parking in Scarborough has brought to light the challenges associated with a balance between the needs of the tourism sector and the needs of the local community. As the time for the trial arrangement progresses, there is a glimmer of hope that a more holistic and sensible approach will emerge, which will help in minimizing the negative effect associated with the impact of motorhome users while still fostering the growth of the tourism sector.