Residents of Newborough, a picturesque seaside village in Anglesey, have voiced their growing frustration over the overwhelming influx of tourists, particularly those drawn to Llanddwyn Beach, a prominent filming location for the hit series House of the Dragon. This surge in visitors, some of whom become entangled in extensive traffic jams, has left locals feeling 'trapped' in their own homes.
On a recent Bank Holiday weekend, community members initiated a 'moving blockade' to draw attention to the chaotic road conditions. Spearheaded by Annwen Williams, a grandmother of seven, the protest involved local children participating in a 'slow march' aimed at delaying cars entering the village. Williams articulated the sentiment of many residents, stating, “For years there have been lots of meetings and lots of talk but not enough action. Well, we are now the action.”
With just 300 parking spaces available at the beach, congestion has reached intolerable levels. Local residents reported being delayed in critical situations, including mourners attempting to reach a funeral, illustrating just how dire the situation has become. Cathy Sands, who manages a local Facebook page, described the Easter weekend traffic as an "absolute farce," noting that the streets were bumper to bumper, creating an environment ripe for accidents.
Local authorities, including Anglesey Council, claim to be monitoring the situation and issuing fixed penalty notices where necessary. Yet, many residents feel that enforcement of existing parking regulations has been lackluster. Sands pointed out that illegal parking on double-yellow lines and obstructing driveways has become commonplace, exacerbating the frustrations of those living in Newborough.
Moreover, the impact of tourism extends beyond traffic. Areas frequented by film crews from House of the Dragon in nearby Gwynedd and Conwy have also experienced restricted access, leading to heightened tensions as locals grapple with the disruption. While a representative from Warner Bros Discovery contends that measures are in place to minimise disturbance, the effectiveness of these promises remains a concern for residents. Incidents of aggressive behaviour from the crew, lacking respect for local protocols, have further intensified animosity towards the production.
As the filming of House of the Dragon aims to showcase the breathtaking coastal essence of Anglesey and the surrounding areas, which are often depicted as the mythical shores of Dragonstone, it raises a pressing question: how can local communities balance the benefits of tourism with their own needs? For Newborough’s residents, a renewed focus on effective traffic management and respect for local rights is essential if the village is to reclaim its peaceful existence.
In light of the ongoing issues, local leaders and residents continue to advocate for more comprehensive solutions. They stress the need for proactive engagement from authorities to ensure that tourists can enjoy the natural beauty of Llanddwyn Beach without impeding the day-to-day lives of those who call the village home.
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Source: Noah Wire Services