The beautiful Marine Drive in Llandudno is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Wales but the toll charges have increased significantly in the last two years
One of Wales’ most scenic drives, Marine Drive, has seen a significant increase in toll prices over the past few years.
The picturesque route around the Great Orme (Y Gogarth) in Llandudno, which was £3.90 to drive in 2022/23, rose to £4.50 last financial year and has now been hiked up to £5.50 – a more than 40% increase in just two years.
The price hike sparked mixed reactions on social media, with one person branding it “daylight robbery”, while others argued it was good value for a day out and included parking at the Great Orme summit.
Conwy council, who levy the toll and maintain the road, explained that the stretch is not categorised as one maintained by public expense and the charge helps to care for the road, including dealing with rock falls.
Jim Jones, chief executive of North Wales Tourism, defended the toll, saying: “The Marine Drive is one of the top scenic drives in the UK, with its historical significance and beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.
“A stage for major sporting events and TV shoots. Of course a toll is needed for ongoing maintenance needs, such as clearing rockfalls and ensuring visitor safety, are crucial for the upkeep of this iconic location, reports WalesOnline.
“Staffing is also important, not just for the collection of the toll, but the team provide valuable visitor information, which is good to see. While it is reasonable to charge a fee to cover the running costs and maintenance of Marine Drive, excessive price hikes may deter people from visiting.”
He continued: “It is also important for the public to know how the funds are being used and whether they are directly contributing to the upkeep of the drive or being re-allocated to other budgets within the council.
“I do think with the continuous Council tax hikes Council attractions and places like the Marine drive should be offering a discount for locals. There should always be transparency in justifying price increases and ensuring that the money is reinvested back into the maintenance of this iconic drive.”
Conwy council said: “The Marine Drive toll fee raises money for maintenance of the road, including the particular challenge of dealing with rock falls.”
The current toll fee (24/25) for cars using Marine Drive is £5.50 or £61.20 for a season permit. Motorbikes pay £3, and it’s free for pedestrians and cyclists. The Marine Drive toll fee includes parking at the Great Orme summit (otherwise charged at £5.50 for 4 hours).”
