Coach parking facilities needed if North to profit from tourists, says industry chief

Jan 18 2009 by Phil Doherty, Sunday Sun

TOWNS and cities across the region could miss out on the expected home holiday boom because of poor coach parking facilities, it has been claimed.

It is believed around 50 per cent more Brits will vacation in the UK than last year, generating millions of pounds in much-needed tourist revenue.

But a survey by the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK pinpointed Newcastle and Morpeth, Northumberland, as likely to miss out on the local economy boost.

Alnwick Gardens in Northumberland, however, is praised for having excellent coach parking.

David Holding, Northern regional CPT manager, explained: “Every year, million of tourists make coach trips, which is big business for the UK tourism and transport economy.

“Newcastle could miss out on this economic boost because of an inadequate provision for coaches in the region.

“Local authorities, tourist boards, city councils and tourism providers can all benefit from embracing coach travel but there is often a failure to recognise the broader benefits it can bring.

“There are currently no parking facilities for coaches bringing supporters to Newcastle United’s St James’s Park. The police impose very strict rulings on timing to keep opposing supporters apart, but there is nowhere for the coaches to go . . . they have to find parking spaces wherever they can.

“In comparison, Alnwick Gardens has excellent facilities for coaches and drivers and is seeking funding which will provide a state-of-the-art facility for drivers, including TV, catering and showers.”

According to the study, although Morpeth bus station does have coach parking, the spaces are constantly being taken by shoppers trying to avoid parking charges at the nearby supermarket.

The research also found theatres in Newcastle have inadequate coach drop-off and pick-up points and this causes problems for drivers during busy times such as the pantomime season.

Mr Holding added: “Supporting provision for coaches in Newcastle will have a positive impact on the city’s economy.

“With local authorities, coach operators and local businesses working more closely, the remarkable potential offered by this sustainable, inclusive and efficient mode of transport can be fully realised.”