Pay and Display machine will be introduced at Haresfield Beacon car park

The National Trust has been granted planning permission by Stroud District Council to install a Pay and Display machine at Shortwood Car Park.

It is expected to start charging for use of the car park from April this year.

The popular hilltop car park on Beacon Lane near Whitesill is currently free and has long been a popular destination for walkers on the Beacon trail and Cotswold Way.

The Trust said the money will be channelled back into “upkeep of car parks, footpaths and wider conservation work”.

A statement on its website says: “During 2017 you will notice some changes at our pay-and display car parks.

“Parking will continue to be free for members, however, from around April we will be updating our car park pay-and-display machines and asking you to scan your member card at our pay-and-display sites for a free parking ticket to display in your car.”

It is not yet clear how much it would cost to park per hour. The machine would accept cash as well as debit and credit cards.

Visitors arriving on foot or by bicycle would not be charged and parking will remain free to all National Trust members displaying a valid car park sticker.

Some who use the land have welcomed the chance to help fund the conservation of the site - but others have criticised the move.

Others have warned that charges will lead to some people parking their cars on the lanes outside, possibly blocking the road and causing safety problems.

Haresfield Beacon incorporates a variety of woodlands and grassland areas high on the Cotswold scarp which boasts extensive views across the Severn estuary towards the Forest of Dean and Brecon Beacons.

For more information visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/car-parking-faqs