The previously-free facility in Valentine Road was nearly deserted on Monday and Tuesday after pay-and-display came into effect on Sunday.

The car park was well-used by local people and fears were immediately raised that users would look for somewhere to park on-street rather than pay to park.

Hunstanton residents have already complained of finding it increasingly difficult to park near their homes. Many blamed higher parking charges introduced in other car parks on April 1, including a new £1 overnight fee.

At nearby Swains Voice and Data in Westgate, commercial director Claire Swain Mason said there was not a single car in the Valentine Road car park at 9am on Tuesday. "That says it all. Normally, you would struggle to get parked at this time," said Mrs Swain Mason.

On Monday, there seemed to be only a few cars in the car park all day, she said.

She was concerned how residents and nearby Hunstanton Infant School would cope with the extra parking pressure. Season parking tickets are available but Mrs Swain Mason felt monthly tickets might be more attractive.

"It's a case of trying to get the balance right. We're out of kilter here," she added.