Issue details

Decision

(a)  To align the day rate in the main tourist locations car parks during peak and low season

(b)  To align charges in all other car parks (rural and town locations)

(c)  To align on-street parking charges in areas that already have on-street pay & display

(d)  That all current public car park permits be withdrawn and that a long stay and short stay car park permit for residents and workers in the Dorset Council area be introduced.

(e)  That Purbeck Park car park at Nordon be categorised into the level 1 parking tariff.

Reason for the decision

Dorset Council Parking Services is currently working under the Parking Orders of the former six Councils, this has led to a disparity of tariffs between areas to the extent that some areas are free to park all day and others pay £9. An alignment of the Parking Orders is necessary to standardise charges to ensure equality for residents.

Consultees

Notifications were sent to Town & Parish Councils, Chambers of Commerce and Business Improvement Districts and public engagement. Place and resources Overview Committee also considered the report and its recommendations.

Budget Implications

The projected income from the proposed changes is £1.8m. The calculations for the projected income are reserved, reflecting a reduction of people choosing to park in the car parks and based on the estimated sales of the new car park permits.

Legal Implications

Legal advice was sought to confirm that the method for updating the parking charges follow guidance as per the Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984.

As per legal duty, Dorset Council has statutorily consulted with the chief officer of police for the area. Also, as per the former Council’s parking policies, consultation has taken place with Chambers of Commerce, Business Improvement Districts and Town Councils. Non-statutory consultation has also been undertaken with Parish Councils.

Dorset Council has chosen to undertake a non-statutory engagement in advance of publishing its proposals with the public (although there is no general duty to do so).