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.
