'Irresponsible' visitors have been blamed for new car parking charges coming into effect at Frensham Great Pond next month.

As of Monday, June 12, the increased charges will apply on all parking at Frensham Great Pond car park every day during charging hours (9am to 7pm).

The charges will now be £1.60 up to an hour (up from £1.50), £3.30 for 1-2 hours (up from £3), £4.40 for 2-4 hours (up from £4) and £6.50 for all day (up from £6).

Cllr Andy MacLeod, Waverley Borough Council’s portfolio holder for operations and enforcement, said:  “The popularity of Frensham and the increased necessity for more site enforcement and marshalling due to those visitors who don’t behave responsibly, alongside the loss of central government funding to pay for this enforcement, has led to the need for increased parking charges.

“Frensham is one of our most popular greenspaces and the new parking tariff will also help us to recoup some of the costs needed to maintain the site and its wildlife to a high standard.”

Cllr Kika Mirylees, Waverley's portfolio holder for health, wellbeing, parks and leisure, added: “We’d like to remind those visiting Frensham, especially during the summer months when we see very high volumes of visitors, to please help us look after the site by respecting the environment, especially with regards to littering which has such a negative impact on the natural, rare habitat and wildlife that we work so hard to conserve.

"We have many protected species and unusual plants on the site and it’s important we keep the site in good condition to help these species thrive. We would also remind visitors that barbecues and bonfires are not allowed on site due to the risk of wildfires, particularly in the hotter months.

“Additionally, please park only in the car park as it is not allowed anywhere else and illegal parking will be enforced. If the car park is full, the site will be full, in which case, why not visit one of our other many beautiful greenspaces in the borough.”

For further information on Frensham or Waverley’s other greenspaces, visit Waverley Borough Council - Parks and playgrounds in Waverley.