Local anglers have told Nub News that the new Esplanade parking restrictions could have a "devastating" impact on their beloved Penarth Sea Angling Club.

Members of the almost 90-year-old club say that the introduction of two hour parking restrictions on roads off the Esplanade will make the pier inaccessible to older fishing enthusiasts.

They fear this could deal a devastating blow to the club when competitions and events resume post-lockdown.

"It's been two hours along the prom for about 20 years I think," says club secretary Robert Galley. "But, until now, we could park up the hill past the yacht club - Cliff Hill - because most of our competitions are four hours you see.

"You've got to book in, weigh in, maybe do a bit of pleasure fishing beforehand - so you're talking at least six hours.

"With the new restrictions, this will not be possible anymore.

"We've got quite a few elderly people - I'm 73 myself - and walking up and down that hill doesn't get easier as you get older."

Another member, who wishes to remain anonymous, asked Nub News, "Why are the Vale destroying Penarth by placing these restrictions on parking?

"This is a 90-year-old fishing club that will be destroyed because of the new parking restrictions," he continued.

"It would be nice if they could give club permits to park in the new restricted zones on Sunday. We could put club badges in our windows."

Councillor Peter King, Cabinet Minister for Transport, told Nub News:

"The problem is, there's always somebody, somewhere with some reason why a new system doesn't work.

"If you genuinely cannot walk down the hill, then you qualify for a blue badge and therefore the restrictions do not apply as we've added more disabled spots."

Cllr King also tentatively hinted at looking into providing permits for competitions, but no promises were made.

Click HERE for more information on the new parking restrictions.