A WAR memorial is being turned into a “parking space” by “inconsiderate” drivers, according to furious business owners and locals.

The war memorial, which is situated on the High Street in Newport city centre, was unveiled in 1994 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the D-Day landing in June 1944.

Despite this, according to locals, some drivers are using it as a place to park.

Amy McCann, who owns McCann’s Rock N Ale Bar on Newport High Street, said drivers “regularly” park on the spot.

She said: “I’m opposite the memorial and it’s shocking to see drivers go on it.

“I feel very angry when I see people doing it because my brother is in the Royal Marines.

“People can clearly see that you’re not allowed to park there but they don’t care.

“Having a barrier would stop people going there.”

Keiran King, who is manager of The Carpenters Arms pub, said it was “inconsiderate” to park on the spot.

He said: “It is disrespectful to park there and especially so when there’s poppies on the ground. Some of the drivers haven’t taken any notice.

“I hope these drivers can somehow be made aware of what they’re doing.”

Ian Johnson, who lives in Newport, said he recently had an argument with someone for damaging a poppy wreath.

“I had a right go at her because she parked on top of a poppy wreath,” said Mr Johnson.

“I want to see the police patrolling the road to stop parkers from going there.”

Ian Roberts, who is police sergeant for Newport, said that parking on the memorial is “disrespectful”.

He said: “Parking in the city centre is something my officers are working on every day to educate people about where they can park legally but also to give out fines when necessary. There is plenty of parking available where drivers can park safely and legally in the city centre and anyone parking illegally should expect a fine.”

He added people can report illegal parking by calling 101.

Newport Cllr Roger Jeavons, cabinet member for Streetscene, said it was “deplorable”.

He said: “Those who park their cars so carelessly and with no regard for others would do well to remember the selfless sacrifice made by so many on D-Day and in other wars and conflicts. I will ask officers to look at whether anything can be done to protect the memorial but it would be sad to have to do anything which might restrict those who wish to pay their respects.”

Councillor Jeavons added that vehicles were only permitted access to the High Street between 5pm to 11am.