In my opinion the Council (and all English councils) are being short sighted. If proper facilities were provided for motorhomes there wouldn't be this confrontation. Motorhomers don't want or need to pay £20 plus per night. All we want is somewhere to park and sleep in safety perhaps for a few pounds per night.
I know there are some who are permanent 'freeloaders', but having seen the motorhomers and their vehicles concerned on the television some time ago, I believe the people are motorhomers making a stand for aires and/or somewhere suitable and safe to park overnight and perhaps stay for a few days.
The television interviews I have seen at the said car park have shown a large empty beach in both directions.
I will get down from soapbox now