### Public Backlash as Newport Traffic Wardens Ticket Charity Event Attendees
A row has erupted in the community of Caerleon after Newport City Council traffic wardens issued parking tickets to attendees of a major charity event held over the weekend. The incident unfolded on Saturday 7 June, as the usually tranquil village became a hive of charitable activity, with residents and visitors participating in a cycling event to raise funds for St David’s Hospice, a cricket match, and celebrations at the local rugby club.
The Dalmatian Bike Ride, a flagship annual fundraiser for St David’s Hospice Care, coincided with other much-anticipated local events. Hundreds of cyclists took to routes spanning up to 101 kilometres, eventually converging at The Priory Hotel and Restaurant, a longstanding supporter of the bike ride, for a communal festival and barbecue. Due to limited parking at the venue, many attendees sought alternative spaces, opting to leave their vehicles in bays near the amphitheatre and the Caerleon Rugby Club.
However, the festivity was marred as images surfaced online showing council-employed parking wardens issuing penalty tickets to numerous parked cars along The Fosse. This sparked an immediate outcry from local residents and event organisers, who described it as “a disgrace” to target community members during a day centred on charitable giving and volunteerism.
Resident Jon Shine voiced the frustrations of many, highlighting the range of events taking place simultaneously, and criticising the council’s timing. “People were here not just for themselves but to support charity and community,” Mr Shine said. He argued that those attending did their best to park carefully and responsibly given the circumstances, and accused the council of prioritising ticketing over more pressing local issues, such as potholes, street cleanliness, and antisocial behaviour.
Parking challenges were exacerbated as weekend sport at the rugby club, combined with the influx of charity cyclists, filled most legitimate spaces. Consequently, some attendees left their vehicles in coach bays, blue badge spaces without permits, or outside marked bays – all against council regulations. As a result, wardens issued twelve penalty charge notices across the area.
Newport City Council responded to the mounting criticism with a statement clarifying their position. A spokesperson explained, “Our civil parking enforcement team were not made aware of any special events taking place in Caerleon prior to their visit. The patrol was scheduled several weeks ago as part of routine operations.” The council argued that enforcing parking rules is vital, adding, “We have a duty to ensure everyone can park safely and legally, especially so that those with disabilities or requiring specific bays are not unfairly obstructed.”
The official breakdown of the fines saw six tickets given to vehicles not displaying a valid disabled badge, three cars were penalised for parking outside marked bays, and a further three for stopping in spaces reserved for buses or coaches.
The council also sought to assure residents that they are willing to work with organisers to provide guidance on managing parking at future events. However, many in the village are not satisfied, with several calling for improved communication between the local authority and the community prior to any scheduled operations, especially when large-scale gatherings are planned.
This episode has cast a shadow over what was intended to be a celebration of community spirit and philanthropy. The fallout has prompted calls for a more understanding and flexible approach by civic authorities when routine enforcement overlaps with events supporting good causes.
The council’s actions have sparked a wider conversation about balancing the rules with supporting community initiatives. As Caerleon reflects on the events of last weekend, many hope for a resolution that respects both local regulations and the goodwill that underpins these vital charitable efforts.