Police said they would remove illeglly parked vehicles. Photo: Partneriaid Eryri

Police are warning visitors to Eryri national park their vehicles may be removed if they obstruct roads over the bank holiday weekend and school break.

North Wales Police and the national park authority pleaded with the public to enjoy the area responsibly during the weekend and half-term holiday that follows.

Gwynedd Council, Conwy Council and Traffic Wales also backed the appeal after large numbers of tourists caused problems over the Easter weekend.

Eryri National Park Authority said the surge in popularity brings challenges to the delicate balance of the environment and local communities. It said it is crucial that visitors adopt sustainable practices and adhere to the guidance provided to ensure the preservation of the area.

Chief Inspector Gethin Jones of North Wales Police said: “Irresponsible parking not only endangers pedestrians, cyclists and other road users but also prevents emergency vehicle access.

“We have previously witnessed pedestrians with young children having to walk in the road in areas such as Llyn Ogwen and Pen y Pass because of the selfish actions of a minority; this is clearly unacceptable. Only recently we had cause to close the A5 because of the dangers posed to road users.

“We will continue to work with our partners to help reduce the risk to all road users, and anybody found to be parked on the clearway or causing an obstruction risks having their vehicle removed at their own expense. Please heed the warning.”

Traffic Wales and local authorities have put in place measures to tackle congestion and ensure the safety of all road users. Visitors are encouraged to check websites and social media channels for information on parking availability, alternative transport options, and live traffic updates.

A spokesperson for Traffic Wales said: “We want as many people as possible to enjoy what the national park has to offer safely and responsibly.

“All road users should plan ahead and avoid disruption by considering more sustainable options for their journeys, travelling outside peak times and, if arriving by car, parking in designated parking areas.”

New sustainable visit guides are available on the national park authority’s website.

Emyr Williams, the national park authority chief executive, said: “By launching the new visiting guides section on our website, we are empowering visitors to experience Eryri sustainably, explore the area without a car, and choose the right path for Yr Wyddfa [Snowdon].

“These guides serve as invaluable resources, providing insights and practical tips that will enable individuals to make informed decisions, reduce their impact on the environment, and ensure a memorable and responsible visit to our cherished national park.”

During peak periods, visitors to the national park are encouraged to use the park and ride facilities or dedicated parking areas if arriving by car. Visitors who wish to use the Pen y Pass car park must pre-book their parking space to ensure availability and alleviate congestion, the authority said.

Vehicle owners should abide by the new parking restrictions in the Ogwen Valley, as failure to do so may result in the issuing of a penalty charge notice or even the removal of the vehicle.

Visitors are also urged to familiarise themselves with the Countryside Code, which outlines the principles of responsible outdoor behaviour, including respecting others, protecting wildlife and livestock, and leaving no trace.

The organisations also emphasise the need for a backup plan. If the desired destination is too busy, visitors are encouraged to explore alternative areas that offer equally stunning landscapes and recreational opportunities.

Eryri was formerly known as Snowdonia, and the authority has adopted the Welsh name Yr Wyddfa for the nation’s highest mountain.