Fears motorhomes will avoid Lincoln after car park sleeping ban introduced

The entrance to the Lawn car park on Union Road, Lincoln
-Credit: (Image: Lincolnshire Live)


A ban on motorhome owners sleeping overnight in Lincoln council car parks has been described as 'unjust' by other users. Anyone visiting Lincoln in a motorhome will have to pre-book at designated parking spots out of the city centre from November 25, with those who don't facing fines.

City of Lincoln Council says the amount of motorhomes staying overnight at some car parks has become a safety risk, with some also abusing the facilities. The Lawn, next to the castle on Union Road, has been highlighted as one hotspot, with 914 campervans visiting since May.

Cars and motorhomes in the Lawn car park in Lincoln, next to a grassy area
Cars and motorhomes in the Lawn car park in Lincoln, next to a grassy area

Local councillors and residents have expressed concerns about how the car park's bins and grassy areas were being treated. The council says that a six metre gap between motorhomes is needed to reduce fire risk, which isn't possible in normal car parks.

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People will still be able to park in the day and leave their vehicles unattended overnight. No motorhome occupants at the Lawn wished to speak, but other users were concerned about how it could discourage tourism to Lincoln.

Stephen Hill said: "It seems a bit unjust. I understand they don't want 20-foot-long motorhomes parking on the grass, but as long as they stay in the spaces, what's the problem? The parking encourages people to come to the city. If they can't sleep here, they won't stay, and will avoid Lincoln totally."

Michelle Farrely described the ban as "ridiculous. I don't see why they can't stay here overnight. It's great for the local businesses, great for the castle, and they're not doing any harm. It's what the car park's there for," she said.

Cars and motorhomes in the Lawn car park, Lincoln
Cars and motorhomes in the Lawn car park, Lincoln

A dog walker at the Lawn said: "It seems quite petty to stop people sleeping overnight. It's a wonderful place to park your van - there are always campervans here.

A local resident said: "If there's space, why not? Although motorhomes do always look for cheap spaces - whether you see that as cheating or not is a matter of perspective." Alternative overnight sites are available at Hartsholme County Park and Decoy Farm.

Councillor Joshua Wells (Lab), Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth, said: "The safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority, which is why we’ve made the difficult decision to prohibit overnight sleeping in vehicles across our car parks. The growing number of campervans at The Lawn raised legitimate concerns around safety, parking capacity, and the misuse of facilities.

“It is essential that, as a council, we listen to the views and concerns of our residents and, where possible, address them. We believe this new approach will help ensure a safer, more efficient parking experience for all. We do not wish to deter motorhome users from visiting our beautiful city – Lincoln is not alone in facing this issue – but it is important they use the appropriate facilities located within the city when staying overnight.”