City charging for summer parking at Vancouver’s Spanish Banks Beach

If you’re planning to visit Vancouver’s beaches for Canada Day, remember to bring money for parking.

Starting Monday, the only remaining beach in the city with free parking, Spanish Banks, will now charge $1 per hour for the use of its lots.

In May, the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation voted on the decision to charge a fee for a 12-month trial period. The $1 per hour fee will be in effect during the beach’s peak season from July to September, after which the City of Vancouver says it will determine a reduced charge.

“Staff advised that paid parking at this location would help alleviate traffic and parking concerns and minimize unnecessary searching for parking that contributes to congestion, traffic safety risks and air pollution,” said a statement by the city.

When first presented, the idea received plenty of pushback.

One group believes charging for parking at the beach could be a barrier to access the area, particularly for those with lower incomes, according to the petition’s Change.org page, which was organized by a group that calls itself “Vancouver Beach Lovers 2.”

The petition, which gained almost 4,000 signatures, states that parking is charged at other beaches like Kitsilano and Jericho because those beaches both have limited parking and easier public transport and bike access.

“Spanish Banks is long and has a great deal of parking,” the petition says. “People come to Spanish Banks by car because it is by far the easiest way to get there, especially for large families, the elderly, disabled or people with bbq’s or other beach gear.”

The city says its rate “maintains affordability and accessibility.”

It says the enforcement of paid parking at Spanish Banks Beach will run from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., to enable free parking and improved access for early morning visitors.

—With files from Charlie Carey.