BCP Council is asking the Government for new powers to introduce higher parking fines after a trial showed a drop in illegal parking across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
In August 2025, a higher Penalty Charge Notice trial was carried out on some coastal roads following lobbying by the council and local MPs. During the trial, fewer vehicles parked on double yellow lines or blocked junctions and dropped kerbs, giving emergency services better access and helping traffic move more freely.
The findings showed illegal parking fell by nearly seven per cent. Support for tougher enforcement was backed by fifty nine per cent of residents and seventy six per cent of businesses. The council also reported that higher fines did not deter visitors, with millions of trips made to beaches and returning visitors more than doubling year on year.
Councillor Millie Earl said illegal parking blocks roads and pavements and stronger powers clearly reduce the problem and improve safety. Councillor Richard Herrett said the report shows greater powers prompt a shift in behaviour and help keep communities accessible.
The proposals will be discussed by councillors at an overview and scrutiny committee on 23 February and at Cabinet on 4 March.
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