Wrekin visitors hit with parking fines after new restrictions come into force

Visitors to the Wrekin have been warned to take care where they park after drivers were fined for parking along nearby roads under new rules.

New parking restrictions have come into force along popular routes to the Shropshire landmark, catching out some motorists who had previously parked for free while heading out on walks.

In addition to the Wildlife Trust’s popular Forest Glen car park to the northeast of the Wrekin, a 51-space pay-and-display car park on a patch of land known as the Donkey Field opened in December last year.

However, roadside parking and laybys have long been used by visitors looking to avoid parking charges while exploring the hill.

Now, motorists who have failed to spot the new restrictions - or ignored them - have been hit with fines.

The restrictions in place along Wrekin Course, Cluddley Lane and Ercall Lane now prohibit parking anywhere except for marked parking bays.

A long layby to the side of Cluddley Lane has been retained for free car parking spaces.

Local community group Wellington Walkers are Welcome issued a warning to those visiting Telford’s most famous hill.

A group spokesperson said: “Although we would always promote walking to the Wrekin from Wellington, or from the [free] Ercall car park, we realise that this is not within everyone's ability, and the Wrekin Connect bus service has ended so some people are back to driving and parking.

“There are new restrictions on road parking. Several vehicles have already been ticketed along this stretch so please take care where you park if you're unable to walk there.”

Plans to impose the parking restrictions went out to public consultation in June 2026, with highways officers stating that the restrictions would improve road safety, prevent damage, congestion and improved traffic flow.