BCP Council is trialling higher parking fines along key seafront routes from Sandbanks to Southbourne throughout August, in a bid to tackle dangerous and illegal parking during the busy summer season.
With approval from the Department for Transport, the scheme will test whether increased penalties reduce irresponsible parking that has obstructed access for residents, emergency services and others. This is the first time such an enforcement level has been trialled outside of London.
Fines will rise to £160 for higher tariff offences, such as parking where it is not allowed, and £110 for lower tariff offences like overstaying in a marked bay. Tow-away fees will also increase sharply, with same-day vehicle release costing £280 during the trial period.
Awareness of the higher fines will be made via “posters” being put up around the area, and via news outlets. Councillors also expect the national media to pick up the story, but don’t expect the move to deter people from visiting the area during the summer holidays.
Beach users are being encouraged to use car parks further away from the coast, and walk for longer instead of parking illegally if closer car parks are full.
Earlier this year, more than 4,000 Penalty Charge Notices were issued during just three summer weekends, with reports of driveways being blocked and emergency access routes made impassable.
Councillor Richard Herrett said the aim was to improve safety and access for everyone. The council is also encouraging residents, visitors and businesses to provide feedback on the trial via its website.
Once the trial ends, the Department for Transport will assess the results before deciding whether the changes could be introduced permanently.
Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) fines are set by the government and currently stand at:
- £70 for higher tariff parking offences (reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days)
- £50 for lower tariff offences (reduced to £25 if paid within 14 days).
During the trial period, parking fines will be increased in the designated trial area to match London rates and will be:
- £160 for higher tariff offences (reduced to £80 if paid within 14 days)
- £110 for lower tariff offences (reduced to £55 if paid within 14 days).
The fines for towaways will also increase significantly during the trial. They currently stand at:
- £105 for release from Car Pound
- £12 for Storage Fee (per day)
- £50 for Disposal Fee
During the trial period, they will increase to match the levels set for London:
- £280 for release from Car Pound
- £55 for Storage Fee (per day)
- £100 for Disposal Fee