Free parking will be available in several Dorset Council car parks on selected days in the run-up to Christmas, while Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has confirmed it will not be doing the same.
Dorset Council says the free days aim to help local businesses by encouraging people to shop in towns including Ferndown, Wimborne and Wareham.
The council says the JustPark app and ticket machines will show no charge in participating sites, although on-street parking rules will remain in place. Check before you park to make sure on this website.
Parking remains free in Verwood town centre.
Councillor Richard Biggs said the initiative recognises pressures on household budgets and is intended to support independent traders. Councillor Jon Andrews added that the scheme will allow people to spend more time browsing and enjoying seasonal events without watching the clock.
However, BCP Council says its policy of charging throughout the Christmas period remains unchanged, following a decision made in 2022 to remove free festive parking permanently. BCP owns many town centre car parks including The Dolphin Shopping Centre car park.
Councillor Richard Herrett said the council faces significant financial pressures and cannot give up more than £200,000 of income that contributes to essential services.
He also welcomed the Christchurch Chamber of Trade and Commerce’s plan to fund free parking in some town centre car parks on two Saturdays in December.
Privately-owned Castlepoint Shopping Centre continues to offer free parking, and has lifted the usual four-hour limit till 4th January 2026.
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