Controversial parking fees affecting thousands of day-trippers to a hugely popular beach have been scrapped.

Visitors from across Kent heading to Camber Sands were paying up to £30 per day to use two of the resort’s car parks this summer - under a new scheme launched by Rother District Council.

The decision to hike the fees was made back in March by the authority for the facilities at Camber Central and Old Lydd Road, and was implemented during a nine-week trial from July to September.

The authority said it was increasing the parking charges in a bid to reduce “severe congestion,” which had been creating problems for residents, public transport and emergency services.

It also said further costs were imposed by having to manage the car parks' added security following a rise in anti-social behaviour.

The previously agreed summer 2023/24 tariffs were £3 for up to one hour, which would increase to a maximum of £18 for six or more hours.

Yet during the nine-week trial period, charges rose from fixed per-hour tariffs to a £30 flat fee - almost double for a whole day compared to before.

However, the decision to make the £30-a-day summer flat fee permanent has now been axed.

Conservative MP for Hastings and Rye, Sally-Ann Hart, says she is "delighted” with the announcement after businesses and residents raised concerns about the impact on trade in the town.

The 55-year-old explained: "In July, residents and local business owners raised considerable concerns with me about the introduction of a £30 flat fee at the Central Car Park in Camber.

"Already facing their toughest season in nearly 55 years, I took immediate action by aiming to mitigate the adverse impact on local shops, restaurants and residents.

"While I hoped the fee would be scrapped in the tourism season's final months by offering a much-needed reprieve, this, unfortunately, didn't happen.

"However, I am delighted to share that, following our collective efforts, Rother District Council has listened to our campaign and chosen not to reinstate the flat fee trial at Camber Central and Old Lydd Road for the 2024 season.

"This is a positive step forward for the area and I am committed to doing all I can to support our community in Camber."