The AA has questioned plans to increase parking fines across BCP this year following trial.
During August 2025, higher Penalty Charge Notice fines were introduced on some coastal roads in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, leading to fewer vehicles on double yellow lines, fewer blocked junctions and dropped kerbs, and improved access for emergency services.
BCP Council is now moving through the process to make the higher charges permanent after the trial was approved by the Secretary of State for Transport to test whether it would cut illegal and irresponsible parking across the area.
In a letter to Councillor Millie Earl, AA public affairs representative Luke Bosdet said “a blanket raising of local parking fines to London levels is unacceptable and does not get our support”, adding that the reported change in behaviour of less than ten per cent could be distorted.
Responding, Councillor Richard Herrett said “this trial was approved by the Secretary of State for Transport to see if it would reduce illegal and irresponsible parking, and it did just that”, stressing that residents regularly raise concerns about dangerous parking, particularly near schools.
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