New parking measures go live in North Berwick despite intense backlash

Controversial parking charges have come into force in an East Lothian seaside town despite a wave of protests and unprecedented vandalism.

The parking meters were vandalised shortly after being installed. | Iconic Media

The North Berwick parking management scheme, which went live on Monday, includes three Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs), waiting restrictions, and paid parking.

Enforcement was initially delayed by weeks after more than half of the 40 newly-installed parking meters were targeted by vandals using glue and foam.

Hundreds of local residents and business owners have signed petitions opposing the rollout, with traders expressing ongoing concerns about the potential impact on their livelihoods.

However, East Lothian Council maintains the measures are essential to reduce summer congestion.

Councillor John McMillan, cabinet member for environment, economic development and tourism, said the scheme aims to "improve the turnover of parking spaces and make it easier to access businesses and facilities".

He added that revenue will fund two full-time parking attendants, active travel initiatives, and transport infrastructure improvements.

Charges generally apply between 10am and 4pm from Monday to Saturday, and 1pm to 4pm on Sundays.

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Tariffs and time limits vary across the town, with central areas like the High Street offering 45 minutes of free parking, followed by a £2 charge for up to 90 minutes to incentivise turnover.

Other car parks will charge 50p for 30 minutes, while permits are available for residents, health and social care workers, and the RNLI.

North Berwick is the first East Lothian town to introduce charges, with the council planning similar schemes for Musselburgh, Haddington, Dunbar, and Tranent.