A park and ride scheme could be introduced in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole after councillors backed a motion on managing seasonal parking.
The motion, brought forward by Councillor Eleanor Connolly, called for a feasibility study into the idea, consideration of feedback from a recent parking consultation, and the development of a year-round parking strategy. It was passed with consensus on 16 September, meaning no formal vote was required.
Councillor Connolly said the work aimed to “make visiting a positive experience for both residents and tourists” while balancing peak demand with the needs of local communities.
A trial of higher parking fine charges took place in August after the motion was first drafted, with the results due later this month.
Councillors raised a range of concerns during discussions, including pressures around schools, the need to encourage fewer car journeys, and the difficulties residents face in finding spaces near their homes.
Councillor Chris Rigby said he regularly heard complaints from residents about a shortage of street parking, often made worse by local businesses using the roads as an extension of their operations.
Councillor Richard Herrett noted that successful park and ride schemes elsewhere worked by making parking beyond them more expensive and restricted.
Councillor Connolly added she hoped the work would look at both busy tourist periods and longer-term parking pressures across the area.
The next step will be the feasibility study, which will form part of a wider parking strategy for the BCP area.
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