THE new managers of a beauty spot near Leominster say an increase to parking charges which were introduced earlier this year is 'vital' for the park's upkeep.

The Hereford Times reported earlier this year how charges were to be introduced at Queenswood Country Park after it was taken over by a Community Interest Company (CIC) comprising Herefordshire Wildlife Trust and New Leaf.

The contract for the site, as well as that of Bodenham Lake, was transferred to the CIC on a 99-year lease from Herefordshire Council.

Plans to introduce parking charges at Queenswood were met with some initial criticism, while others supported the move as they believed it was necessary to help maintain the site.

When first introduced, it cost £1 to for up to one hour, £2 for up to two hours and £3 for over three hours.

However, parking will now cost £1 for one hour but will cost £3 for over an hour, then lasting all day.

Disabled parking and motorcycles are still free and annual permits are still available.

However, there is no longer a free 20 minute period for short visits, although the CIC says if organised events are taking place where children need to be collected or dropped off there will be no charge – as long as the site manager is informed in advance.

The organisation said: "These charges are vital for the site’s upkeep and all the money raised through these charges is reinvested into the sites.

"This includes management of the wildlife habitats at the sites, upkeep of paths, running events and trails and maintaining visitor facilities including toilets, car park, children’s play area, visitor centre, picnic benches and waste disposal."

Queenswood has launched its summer events programme, with a number of activities planned throughout August.

The CIC is also looking for community representatives who can providing input and views on all aspects of site management.

For more information visit queenswoodandbodenhamlake.org, call Tim Kaye on 01432 530088 ext 8008 or email t.kaye@queenswoodandbodenhamlake.org