ANGLESEY residents have been angered by the news that one of the island's most popular nature reserve's is set to introduce a £5 car parking charge.

Parking at South Stack, near Holyhead, is currently free with the only charge coming upon entering the nearby lighthouse on the headland.

However, the RSPB has now applied to install machines to collect money for parking, charging the flat-rate of £5 per visit.

“We’re planning to charge £5 for peak and £2.50 for off-peak (October until Easter) car parking for non-members visiting RSPB South Stack,” A spokesperson for the organisation explained.

“Every penny raised from these parking charges will be reinvested back into South Stack.

"It will also fund local contractors to carry out work such as trimming the heather to provide exactly the right habitat for some of the UK’s rarest birds, flowers and butterflies.”

News of the extensive car park, which is leased from Anglesey Council by the bird charity, charging for parking has been met with criticism from several locals.

A group called "Friends of South Stack" has set up a petition in protest against the plans and has so far racked up over 4,000 signatures.

Group member, Lisa Hooton, believes that the £5 fee being proposed by the RSPB does not give consideration to the income of locals who visit the reserve.

"£5 is unaffordable for the vast majority of locals who may just pop there for an hour," Lisa explained.

"People feel they already support the RSPB via the shop and café and so many of them are unhappy with these plans.

"We are not anti-RSPB and it is important to note that we support the work they do at South Stack.

"We are simply trying to work together with them to find a solution that suits everyone."

Albert Owen MP added: "South Stack is a major attraction for locals and tourists alike.

"I accept the financial pressures on charities and organisations, however, many people feel that a £5 peak charge is excessive.

"It hits residents who use the area and its facilities. I suggest the RSPB consider local exemptions or varied discounts, as applies to its members.

Anglesey Council confirmed that the proposal will come before planners on April 4.