Decision details

To consider the Parking Strategy for Dorset Council.

(a)        That the proposed 2027/28 tariffs for car parks, multi-use parking areas, on-street parking (set out in Appendices 1A, 1B, 1C of the report to Cabinet of 10 November 2026), be approved as the basis for further public engagement.

(b)        That a one-year pilot scheme in which Electric Vehicle (EV) drivers will be eligible for a 15% discount for the Flexi Stay Permit, be approved.

(c)        That authority be delegated to the Executive Director for Economy and Environment, in liaison with the Cabinet Member for Place, regarding:

                        i.         Adjusting and promoting the existing resident permit schemes

                       ii.         Conducting a public engagement about the parking proposals in this report

                      iii.         Making possible minor adjustments to tariffs and maximum length of stay times in each town or car park, in liaison with local stakeholders

                     iv.         Improving signage directing drivers to, and within, car parks

                       v.         Introducing charging in free car parks under Dorset Council’s control, for those car parks that are selected and viable to warrant the investment

                     vi.         Conducting further feasibility work to assess options for:

Medium term

-          Solar canopies above car parking bays

-          Park and Ride options for new sites

-          Methods to better utilise underused car park sites

Long term

-          Multi-storey car parks (MSCPs)

-          Dynamic pricing

(d)  That authority be delegated to the Executive Director for Economy and Environment to prepare a five-year Parking Strategy and present it to Cabinet for approval.

(e)  That the Director for Economy and Environment should build upon the many car park safety improvements already implemented, and review car park safety to identify and implement any further measures needed to keep women and girls safe.

Reason for the decision

The decision enabled Cabinet to make key decisions about parking tariffs for 2027/28.