Proposals to reduce on-street parking on Prestatyn High Street have prompted calls for Denbighshire County Council to reconsider the plans as part of a wider town centre revamp.

Clwyd MS Darren Millar and Prestatyn Mayor Councillor Anton Sampson have raised concerns about the potential impact on local shops, cafés and other businesses, arguing that convenient parking helps people access the town centre.

The proposals were developed by consultants as part of plans to improve Prestatyn town centre. However, some residents and businesses have expressed opposition to reducing parking, fearing it could make visits less convenient and affect trade.

Mr Millar and Councillor Sampson met Denbighshire County Council’s Lead Member for Environment and Transport, Councillor James Elson, in Prestatyn last week to discuss their concerns.

Mr Millar said he welcomed investment in the town centre but believed the existing on-street parking should be retained.

He said being able to stop close to shops and cafés had helped Prestatyn compete with other towns in North Wales, and urged the council to listen to the concerns of local residents and businesses before deciding how to proceed.

Councillor Sampson said he shared concerns about removing parking spaces and welcomed Councillor Elson’s visit to see the area and hear the arguments being made locally.

He said he would continue working with both men to try to resolve the issue.

The debate highlights the challenge facing town centre regeneration schemes: improving public spaces and the overall shopping experience while ensuring businesses remain accessible to customers.

The potential effects of reducing parking will depend on the final proposals and how any changes are implemented. The council will need to weigh concerns about access and trade against the wider aims of the town centre revamp.