Dorset Council is considering changes aimed at making parking fairer, safer and easier across the county.
A review covering more than 80 council-run car parks and associated on-street spaces has found that some town centre and coastal locations are heavily used during busy periods, while others nearby are often left largely empty.
The council says the imbalance can contribute to congestion, drivers circling for spaces, frustration for residents and visitors, and poorer air quality in busier areas. It also found Dorset has fewer parking enforcement officers than similar councils, which may affect efforts to tackle unsafe or inconsiderate parking.
Councillor Jon Andrews said the work provides the “clearest picture” yet of how parking is used across Dorset, adding that any future changes must recognise people rely on cars, particularly in rural areas.
Early options include town-by-town parking charges, encouraging use of quieter car parks, lower charges for low-emission vehicles, increased enforcement and stronger links with public transport.
No decisions have been made. The findings will first be discussed by the Place and Resources Overview Committee on 9 July before detailed proposals are developed.
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