Aberystwyth drivers 'face longest parking delays'

Great Darkgate Street in Aberystwyth town centre

Motorists in Aberystwyth spend the longest time in the UK looking for a parking space, claims a survey.

Car park operator NCP say it takes 35 minutes on average to search for a spot in the Ceredigion town.

The survey of 9,000 people said drivers in Aberystwyth spent 10 minutes longer than the rest of the UK looking for a space.

Town mayor Sam Hearne said residential parking was a problem, but shoppers were well catered for.

Ms Hearne said there were plans for a multi-storey car park in Aberystwyth.

She added: "There are car parks and a park and ride available in Aberystwyth, but I think shoppers are put off by the cost.

"Maybe people like the convenience of parking in the town centre near the shops and are put off by pay and display car parks?

"Residents sometimes find parking in the town difficult, and should not have to pay and display.

"Students' cars take up a lot of residential parking and this can be frustrating for residents."

NCP said competition for parking also caused stress, and when drivers eventually found a space the pressure of attempting to park with someone watching them was so great they would prefer to find another spot.