BIKES will be banned from parking on the seafront of Wells-next-the-Sea as harbour authorities struggle with demand for spaces.

For the last ten years bikes have been allowed to park for free in the 12 spaces on the quayside in the picturesque Norfolk seaside town but this privilege ends in January 2016.

Wells Harbour master Robert Smith said: ‘We’ve got absolutely nothing against bikers but the demand is too high. It’s a reluctant decision. I’ve listened to the bikers, and also to our other visitors – the pros and cons are about 50/50.’

Smith said on sunny weekends groups of bikers overwhelm the small quay area and that on several occasions his staff have been abused by bikers when they asked obstructive bikes to be moved.

Nearby Holkham House Estate says it is building a purpose built car park and will provide at least 12 spots for the displaced bikers. However, this new parking is away from the water’s edge and therefore loses some of its appeal.

The bikers are an important source of income for the town, according to town clerk Greg Hewitt of the town council.

Hewitt said: ‘I imagine the loss of income will be felt by businesses in town. On any sunny day we can easily get 30 or 40 bikes stopping and buying cups of tea and ice creams. It’ll be sad, another loss for Wells life.’

The full statement issued by Wells Harbour explaining its decision can be read here.