A PUB is set to start handing out parking fines to non-customers who have been taking advantage of its car park for years.
The Talbot in Kempsey is cracking down on those who have been using its private car park to drop off their children at school, engage in illegal activities, or visit neighbouring businesses.
It’s after the landlord, Martin Hannon, received complaints from his delivery drivers and customers who have struggled to park.
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“The decision comes due to an amalgamation of about 15 problems and also to stop crime,” said Mr Hannon.
“So far, we’ve had an exceptional amount of support and it looks like it’s been a success.
“I know it has caused strain on individuals and I do feel sorry for the school.”
Mr Hannon has lived in the village for 10 years and took over the pub three years ago, hoping to turn it from a drinking venue into a family-friendly food pub.
But during his time at the pub, he has been forced to pay £500 to replace six posts damaged by non-customers, watched drivers eat food not from the venue in their cars and throw the rubbish on the car park’s floor, and had cars left at the venue for weeks.
There have also been complaints about abuse and damage to vehicles in the car park, caused by the overwhelming number of non-customers regularly using the site as a drop-off and pick-up point.
He also shared how there have been issues with boy racers and drug dealers using the car park at night.
Mr Hannon added: “It has been quite a large problem, not just for me, but for everyone in Kempsey,
“It does seem to have solved the problem, and Kempsey has been supportive in droves.
“If Kempsey wants to move forward, it does not need to expand its capacity but increase infrastructure.”
The decision took Mr Hannon, Marston Pubs, and the car parking company two years to reach a decision.
Customers who wish to use the car park can enter their vehicle registration after purchasing an item worth at least £2 from the venue.