SOUTH Wales Central AM Andrew RT Davies has warned that parking problems at Penarth Pier Pavilion are a "huge issue" and need to be addressed.

Mr Davies, who is based in the Vale, visited the newly re-vamped Penarth Pier Pavilion last week. The building is run by a charitable trust and has become a much-loved community resource since re-opening in December last year after a £4.2million redevelopment.

Mr Davies said: “Clearly more could still be done by the local authority to support the development of Penarth Pier as a tourist attraction.

“Parking remains a huge issue on Penarth seafront and that needs to be addressed for the sake of all of local businesses, and there is limited signposting in the town itself driving visitors towards the pier.”

He added that the transformation of the pier was "remarkable" after he was given a tour of the revamped building by director of the Pavilion Dr David Trotman.

"The Pavilion itself has a rich local history and it is wonderful to see it being brought back into local community use," he said.

“Even on a cold and windy day this is clearly an extremely popular local attraction and it’s great to see people of all ages coming together to enjoy it.

“I was particularly pleased to see that funding has been secured to offer art classes for children with special needs, young carers and other young people.”

The Pier relies upon the support of over 100 volunteers and is now open as a cinema, gallery and café, attracting visitors from throughout the Vale. However, Mr Davies said that more could be done to attract people, including addressing long-term parking issues.