Motoring & Transport | Posted on August 8th, 2025 | return to news

Take part in Dorset Council parking survey

People in the Dorset Council area have until 4 September to put forward their views on parking in the county’s 117 car parks plus on street areas.

Car parking is always a contentious issue, and people in the Dorset Council area are invited to put forward their views in a survey which needs to be completed by 4 September.

The survey will assess how well the current parking arrangements are working and explore opportunities to improve access, fairness and sustainability.

The review covers all 117 council-operated car parks and on-street parking areas, including resident zones, coastal destinations and town centres.

The council is particularly keen to hear about:

How and when people use Dorset Council car parks
The current three-tier parking pricing structure
Awareness and use of parking permits (including short stay, flexi stay, and resident permits)
Experiences with resident-only, evening and overnight parking
Suggestions for improvements, including EV charging, permit flexibility and signage

Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet member for Place Services, said: “Parking is something that affects everyone, whether you live, work, run a business or visit Dorset. This review is about making sure our parking services are fair, accessible and fit for the future. We want to hear from as many people as possible to help us understand what’s working well and where we can do better.

“Your feedback will directly influence how we manage parking across the Dorset Council area, so please take a few minutes to complete the survey.”

The review also supports Dorset Council’s wider goals, including reducing carbon emissions, supporting the local economy and improving road safety and accessibility.

The survey can be completed online at consultation.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/c-e/parking-survey. Printed copies are available on request by contacting Dorset Council on 01305 221000.