Parking charges at Stanmer Park, Brighton, come into force today

Brighton and Hove City Council say the charges have been introduced "in response to concerns from residents and visitors about parking problems in the park during the day".

"The new measures have also been designed to protect the heritage of the Grade-II listed Historic Park and Garden which is currently undergoing a £5.1 million restoration project," a spokesman for the authority said.

• READ MORE: Walkers slam parking fines and 'unclear' signs at Stanmer Park, Brighton

"Income from car parking charges will be ring fenced for use in Stanmer Park and the wider estate to continue the investment in, and protection of, important historic structures, and management and maintenance of the park.

"Warning notices are currently being issued by traffic enforcement officers alerting drivers to the introduction of paid parking."

Alongside the new parking charges, several further changes have been made regarding access to the site.

Parking charges at Stanmer Park come into force today

A new layout for parking has been introduced, with more spaces now placed away from the 18th Century designed landscape, and access to Stanmer Village has been restricted to pedestrians, cyclists, authorised permit holders and Blue Badge holders only.

The layby opposite Stanmer House has been reduced in size, and the council has reaffirmed that this space can only be used for the drop off and collection of visitors.

There is new cycle parking for all, including Brighton Bikes, next to the Walled Garden and the Kiosk at Lower Lodges West, and access to the Walled Garden has been restricted to pedestrians, cyclists, , business leaseholders and Plumpton College deliveries.

• READ MORE: One Parking Solution 'fined disabled drivers' at Stanmer Park

A council spokesman said: "The number of parking spaces in car parks away from designed heritage features has been increased and overflow parking can be made available for peak periods.

"The charges vary depending on time and location but will range from £1 for an hour to £6.50 for 11 hours.

"Signs have been erected throughout the park and more information is available on the Stanmer Park pages of the council website."

A review of the parking scheme will be carried out in 18 months.

With the addition of the new parking measures, Brighton and Hove City Council is encouraging visitors to travel to Stanmer Park, and the Downs, by bus.

A spokesman said: "A £5 ‘Breeze Return' can be used by walkers to return from Devil’s Dyke or Ditchling Beacon.

"There is free Travel for journeys that are only within the park (eg. Stanmer Park Entrance to Stanmer Village)

"Up to two children (under 16) go free when travelling with an adult.

"The 78, which runs right through Stanmer Park and up to the village, church and café, runs on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays throughout the year."