Crackdown on illegal campervan parking

Campervans are becoming a "scourge" in some tourism hotspots of the south-west.

Enforcement officers in Kerry County Council, in particular, are linking up with gardaí to combat littering and illegal parking in beaches and beauty spots.

There is particular concern about increasing numbers of campervans arriving at locations where there are limited facilities.

Some county councillors, demanding more regulatory powers, have claimed the campervans are illegally overnighting in public car parks, viewing spots, and on private property.

Kerry County Council said it is reviewing certain parking bylaws and has advised campervan owners to use only designated caravan parks in tourist areas.

The council’s communications officer Padraig Corkery said: “This is an annual issue and our roads enforcement officer is working closely with gardaí to move on these vehicles when they are parking in prohibited areas.”

Beach bylaws already ban overnight parking and there are also areas with time restrictions, he said.

On a recent weekend, it emerged, up to 15 camper vehicles pulled into a viewing area overlooking Ladies’ Beach in Ballybunion, setting up tables and chairs al fresco and linking power from one van to the next.

Local people complained and Ballybunion councillor Robert Beasley called for greater powers for gardaí and the council to tackle the situation. He said a primary concern was health issues due to inadequate water facilities.

Although the vehicles did not breach any bylaws, Kerry County Council said the incident would be part of its examination of parking around the county.

Kerry mayor John Brassil said there should be tighter controls on campervans. He claimed some campervan owners are littering and spoiling beaches.

Mr Brassil, from the seaside resort of Ballyheigue, said an inordinate number of campervans were parking overnight in beach areas.

Meanwhile, campervan clubs pointed out that strict rules apply to members, with all waste water and rubbish to be disposed of in a sanitary and approved manner. Clubs said membership could be terminated for any breaches.

Clubs also distribute the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Guide to members, showing all caravan parks throughout Ireland and urging use of such facilities whenever possible.

However, clubs also hit out at the lack of facilities for campervans in this country.