Agenda item

To receive the report from the Transport & Parking Strategy Lead

The Committee considered Dorset Council's comprehensive, data-led review of parking across Dorset. Discussion focused on how improved data collection and technology could support better management of parking assets, improve the customer experience and strengthen the contribution parking made towards wider transport, economic and environmental objectives. Members welcomed the detailed analysis of parking usage and recognised the value of using evidence gathered from payment systems to better understand demand patterns, parking behaviour and car park performance across Dorset. The Committee supported the principle of using data to inform future decisions rather than relying solely on anecdotal evidence.

The proposed upgrade of parking machines received broad support. Discussion focused on the benefits of improved technology, including greater flexibility for users, improved data collection, digital payment options and the potential to simplify parking arrangements for residents and visitors. The Committee also considered how future systems could create opportunities for more innovative charging models and improved customer convenience.

A significant theme within the discussion was the role of parking in supporting town centres and local economies. Members considered how parking could be used to encourage longer visits, increase spending within local businesses and strengthen the vitality of Dorset's market towns and coastal communities. The importance of ensuring that parking remained accessible and affordable for local residents was emphasised throughout.

The Committee discussed ways to improve the experience of using Dorset's car parks. Topics included clearer signage, better wayfinding, directing visitors towards appropriate parking locations, improving the condition of car parks and making long-stay options easier to identify. Members considered these improvements particularly important in supporting tourism and reducing congestion in town centres.

A lengthy discussion took place regarding proposals to introduce parking incentives linked to vehicle emissions. Concerns were raised that such an approach could disproportionately affect residents on lower incomes who may not have the means to purchase lower-emission vehicles. Members discussed alternative ways of supporting climate objectives, including encouraging local travel, supporting public transport and reducing unnecessary vehicle journeys.

The Committee also explored opportunities to use technology to support more flexible parking arrangements, including aspirations towards pay-on-exit style systems and more integrated digital services. Members viewed these developments as potentially beneficial to residents, visitors and local businesses.

Further discussion considered resident parking permits, affordability, payment options, reinforcement of parking enforcement, alternative uses for car parks during quieter periods and opportunities for wider income generation from parking assets.

Recommendations

There was a proposal by Cllr Brown, seconded by Cllr Gibson that the emission-based charging is excluded from the parking strategy and planned actions at the current time and was carried with 7 votes for and 1 against.

The following recommendations from the Place and Resources Overview Committee were summarised by the Chair, proposed by Cllr Taylor and seconded by Cllr Crabb and unanimously agreed.

1.     The proposal for emissions-based parking charges or discounts be removed from the actions and future strategic direction of the Parking Review and that alternative approaches be considered at this time.

2.     The upgrade of parking technology be supported to provide the intelligence and functionality needed to develop resident-focused parking discounts and schemes.

3.     Resident parking permits should become more accessible, including exploring opportunities to make permits easier and more affordable to pay for through instalment arrangements and future system improvements.

4.     The Council should continue to explore pay-on-exit style parking arrangements and other technology solutions that make parking more flexible and convenient for customers.

5.     Improved signage and digital information should be introduced to make it easier to identify available parking, long-stay car parks and alternative parking locations, helping to reduce congestion and improve the visitor experience.

6.     Opportunities should be explored to make better use of car parks during quieter periods, including community uses and alternative income-generating activities.

7.     Investment should continue in improving the condition, appearance and maintenance of Dorset's car parks so that they provided a positive first impression for residents and visitors.