Zip World parking anger mellows as people in Wales offered 'VIP cards' with host of discounts
Adrenaline operator Zip World has begun issuing VIP cards for local residents giving free parking and discounts on its rides, food and accommodation. The move follows criticism of new parking charges introduced at its sites this summer.
The VIP cards cover the whole of the country other than areas of Mid Wales with SY postcodes. As well as free parking, they offer 20% off at Zip World’s food and drink outlets, 10% off all adventures and 10% off accommodation.
In July, residents in Bethesda, Gwynedd, were left seething by new parking fees and the introduction of APNR cameras at the company’s Penrhyn quarry site. Many were using the site’s cafe and they claimed parking charges of £3 for up to three hours would double the price of a coffee.
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Zip World was accused of “shooting itself in the foot” by risking the loss of local patronage, especially out of season when visitor numbers decline. There were also concerns visitors to the world’s fastest zip line would park on residential roads to avoid paying the fees.
One local critic was quick to applaud Zip World for its new VIP cards. She said: “I can’t be certain but I would hope these are in response to the anger people felt about the parking charges and how it would exclude the locals.
“We’re all quick enough to shout about the negative things but, personally, I thought this was a great response from Zip World. I collected my VIP card yesterday. My car reg was added to the list, it was easy.” Sign up now for the latest news on the North Wales Live Whatsapp community
At launch, Zip World said only a limited number of cards will be released. However, their future availability will be monitored based on demand. They can be claimed by residents with the following postcodes:
North Wales: LL, CH1 6B, CH1 6Q, CH4 9A, CH4 9B, CH4 0, CH5, CH6, CH7, CH8.
South Wales: CF, NP, LD, SA.
A spokesperson said: “We have now launched a VIP card for local residents, which entitles them to free parking at all of our North and South Wales sites. The VIP card also provides residents with 20% off at our food and drink outlets, 10% off all adventures, and 10% off our accommodation.
"Residents with local postcodes can claim their cards by visiting one of our Wales-based sites and bringing proof of address with them.” Proof could include a utility bill, for example.
The discounts follow the same parameters as Zip World’s other promotions and incentives. They apply only to full-priced adventures and cannot be used for vouchers, group tickets, events or themed experiences.
Local discounts on Zip World’s rides and experiences have been offered previously, typically for out-of-season visits. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
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