Height Barrier and Cameras Installed on Beach Road to Restrict Campervan Parking

A height restriction barrier and CCTV cameras are currently being installed on a beach road with the aim of preventing campervans from parking there. According to PD Ports, a significant number of vehicles utilize the narrow, privately owned South Gare peninsula, situated at the mouth of the River Tees. The organization asserts that the site has been erroneously promoted as a free or wild camping location on social media platforms. Chief executive officer Frans Calje stated: “If there was an emergency on the gare itself, or out on the water or the beach, the current situation would make it very difficult for vehicles to access the area.” South Gare, an operational breakwater, was constructed in the 1850s to safeguard the entrance to Teesport. The specific section of the gare in question is marked with signage indicating that it is private land, owned and operated by PD Ports. “We have received a number of complaints from residents and licenced tenants about anti-social behaviour and inconsiderate parking,” Mr Calje commented. He added: “We not taken this decision lightly but the number of people behaving inappropriately in this area means we have no choice.” The Harbour Police, an independent force funded by PD Ports, will continue to monitor the vicinity. Furthermore, several abandoned vehicles are in the process of being removed from the site.