CALLS to tackle overcrowding and illegal parking at Frensham Great Pond fell on deaf ears last week, as hordes of sun-seekers congregated at the beauty spot once again.

But councillors have been quick to assure residents that more is being done to prevent a further influx of visitors in the future.

It follows a similar incident over the May Bank Holiday, which left Waverley councillor Julia Potts calling for action – having “never seen anything on this scale”.

Overflowing bags of rubbish and disposable barbecues have been left on the beach – which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest – prompting Frensham and Churt residents to assist with a clear-up “on a daily basis”.

In a statement to the Herald, Waverley Borough Council insisted further measures had been put in place, such as additional no parking signs, no waiting signs on Pond Lane and at the Memorial Green, as well as putting on extra patrols by rangers and enforcement officers.

The council also confirmed it had installed posts around St Mary’s Green and the Memorial Green, with similar plans in place for Bacon Lane.

It comes after resident Mick Cook reportedly spoke with “several motorists”, who said they would “take a chance on not getting a ticket” at the site.

Following Waverley’s announcement, Cllr Potts said she was “pleased with the collective response”, having previously called for “strong enforcement on the local roads and additional, highly-visible signage”, while the council works on a long-term solution.

Cllr Potts also told the Herald of how the previously-announced Waverley Joint Action Group had garnered the support of surrounding councils because of its location on the county border, with an officer from East Hampshire District Council set to join the group, as well as involvement from Frensham Parish Council.

“There is certainly a real momentum now and all parties really want to address the issues,” she said.

“However, input from both Surrey and Hampshire is crucial and feedback from many of the local residents has been positive that both East Hampshire and Frensham Parish Council are all part of the joined-up approach to this issue.

“Overall, I feel a great deal has been achieved in the past six weeks, but I do agree we cannot afford to ease off this in any way.

“I think it is sad the warm weather and an easing of lockdown restrictions has brought out the worst in many people’s behaviour, and I continue to have great concern for this beautiful part of our borough.”