Newcastle Airport holidaymakers blamed for parking chaos as 'last resort' crackdown considered
Discussions have taken place to introduce red route-style restrictions in Ponteland to prevent problem parking from holidaymakers flying from nearby Newcastle Airport.
However, councillors in Northumberland say the solution remains a “last resort” after new measures were brought in this year.
Residents in the town have long complained about “inconsiderate” airport customers parking in their streets to avoid charges at the on-site car parks. Cars have been known to fill up Ponteland’s car parks, block driveways and are even left on verges blocking off a new cycleway.
Speaking at Monday’s meeting of the Castle Morpeth Community Partnership, Ponteland East and Stannington councillor Lyle Darwin said: “We have quite a large problem.
“If you go into the airport, you get charged and it is quite expensive. People park at the cemetery and block people’s driveways.”
Earlier this year, councillors said people were regularly seen walking through Ponteland with their suitcases having parked on residential streets or in some of the town’s car parks. The £1.2 million cycleway between the airport and Darras Hall was described as a “glorified car park”.
The council said it was installing fencing and double yellow lines in affected areas. Council officers explained that new fencing had now been installed to stop vehicles parking on the verge, along with additional signage in Ponteland and more double yellow lines.
The Newcastle Airport red route is a no stopping zone marked with double red lines on key roads around the airport within the boundaries of Newcastle City Council. Vehicles are prohibited from stopping at any time on the red route, which includes the A696 roundabout, the B6918 and Callerton Lane.
The red route is enforced by cameras and civil enforcement officers. Drivers who flout the rules face a fine of £70.
However, some in Northumberland feel that the restrictions have increased the problems in Ponteland, with drivers forced to look elsewhere to avoid charges and fines.
Ponteland North councillor Richard Dodd added: “We have discussed a red route like in Newcastle. That was always a last resort.
“It’s an expense and we probably don’t need it with what is in there now. We have to wait and see what happens next summer.
“It is the red routes that have caused all the problems.”
The airport’s Short Stay 2 Car Park offers 15 minutes of free parking for drop-offs and pick-ups, although Short Stay 1 charges for the same period. The express car park – the most convenient option – costs £5 for 10 minutes.
There is also a free airport car and taxi waiting area located on Callerton Parkway for those waiting to collect passengers before their planes have landed.