Trial shows parking fines should rise, resort says

Parking fines outside London, which have not changed since 2008, should be increased following the success of a government-backed trial, a seaside resort has said.

Fees for offences were allowed to more than double near beaches in Bournemouth and Poole in August 2025.

In a report to the Department for Transport, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said it issued 7% fewer tickets than in August 2024, despite similar weather.

The authority said it was asking the government to make the fines permanent.

The crackdown followed busy weekends in the resorts in June and July 2025, which saw cars parked on double yellow lines and roundabouts.

Previously, residents reported vehicles being abandoned on pavements and blocking fire engines.

The month-long trial, between Sandbanks and Southbourne, saw fees for similar major offences raised from £35 to £80 if paid within 14 days.

Other tariffs included a £100 wheel clamp charge and £280 to release a vehicle from a pound.

BCP Council said results showed a fall in illegal parking compared to August 2024, although it acknowledged the previous year had a three-day air festival.

It said "car parks consistently had spare capacity", although there was no evidence the fees had caused a fall in visitor numbers.

"BCP Council is calling on the Department for Transport to grant long-term approval for increased Penalty Charge Notices to be made permanent," it said.

Alternatively, it said the government could authorise a new trial over a wider area.

Council leader Millie Earl said: "The results of the trial speak for themselves: stronger enforcement powers reduce illegal parking, improve safety, and are strongly backed by residents."

You can follow BBC Dorset on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.