Opposition councillors have welcomed a decision to suspend car parking charges at Bron-y-Môr and the Knap Terrace in Barry, and Cliff Walk in Penarth.
The charges had been introduced in September at Bron-y-Môr and the Knap Terrace in Barry, and Cliff Walk in Penarth.
Plaid Cymru councillors were among those who argued the fees would negatively impact businesses and residents.
Steffan Wiliam, Plaid Cymru councillor for Baruc ward, said: "From the first time that this was raised at the start of this year, Plaid Cymru councillors have warned of the impact upon local businesses and residents.
"However, despite our protests, Labour councillors thought they knew better and pushed this through.
"In November, the popular fish restaurant, Mr Villas, closed its doors at the Knap, citing the charges as a contributory factor in their decision.
Parking charges at Bron-y-Mor and The Knap were heavily criticised (Image: NQ)
"I am pleased that the Vale Council have finally listened to common sense and suspended these charges."
Councillor Mark Hooper, Plaid Cymru's lead candidate for the next Senedd election, said the warnings had been clear from the start.
Mr Hooper said: "As councillors with responsibility for Barry Island and the Knap, Plaid were horrified that Labour wanted to introduce these charges, and we voted against them in committee and the Council Budget earlier this year.
"All of the warning signs were there that this would be unsuccessful and would hurt our local businesses.
"In fact, those businesses told Labour this consistently during the consultation period, and were ignored."
The Vale of Glamorgan Council decided at a meeting on July 3 to remove the free parking at on-street car parking spots in Barry Island and Penarth seafront three months after agreeing to look again at their proposals.
The council argued that the charges would increase the turnover of visitors at both towns and generate income to maintain facilities there.
The introduction of parking charges saw a sharp decline in business for locals (Image: NQ)
Following a scrutiny committee meeting in March the council agreed to review its car parking charge plans but the only obvious change made was the proposed times that people would be charged, with charges in force seven days a week between the hours of 10am and 6pm.
The council acknowledged that the timing of the charges -- introduced during the quieter autumn and winter months -- placed additional strain on nearby traders and residents.
The parking fees were intended to complement a wider plan for on-street charges at Barry Island and Penarth Seafront, designed to improve turnover in high-demand areas. However, those on-street charges have not yet been implemented, which the council admits has resulted in unintended consequences.
A further report on car parking charges, including a further consideration of proposals for on-street charges in Barry and Penarth, will be presented to cabinet in the New Year.