A local authority has axed plans to offer free parking this Christmas, a move that has sparked controversy among local residents and businesses.
The decision, by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council which was made permanent in 2022, stands in stark contrast to neighbouring New Forest District Council's approach.
BCP Council cited financial challenges as the reason for maintaining parking charges while New Forest District Council plans to offer four days of free parking in town and village centre car parks during the festive season.
This includes Small Business Saturday on December 7 and the last weekend before Christmas where parking measures will be eased.
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New Forest District Council plans to offer four days of free parking
PAThe contrasting policies have raised concerns about the potential impact on local businesses and shoppers in the BCP area, with some residents expressing disappointment and frustration over the council's decision.
One resident commented: "Come on BCP - help the businesses in Poole Christchurch and Bournemouth during the festive season. Thursday evening late-night shopping has been free parking in Poole for many years, to help everyone."
Another criticised the council's priorities, stating: "They have just finished the town centre. People can go to Southampton for free parking at the West Quay centre which has all the shops people need and all undercover and restaurants are in there as well."
The decision to maintain parking charges has been defended by BCP Councillor Mike Cox who told GB News that reintroducing free parking at Christmas would cost the council over £200,000 in lost income which goes towards funding statutory services.
Cox explained: "We have been open and transparent about the financial challenges the council is facing.
"Like all other local authorities, this means looking carefully at where the council spends its money and prioritising services that support our most vulnerable residents."
The comparison with Southampton's West Quay centre has become a point of contention. Some residents argue that the free parking offered at West Quay, combined with its extensive shopping and dining options, may draw customers away from BCP's town centres.
One local shared: "People can go to Southampton for free parking at the West Quay Centre which has all the shops people need and all undercover and restaurants are in there as well."
This sentiment highlights the potential economic impact on local businesses in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.
The concern raised is that shoppers might opt for the convenience and cost-saving of Southampton's offering, particularly during the crucial Christmas shopping period.
The decision not to offer free parking has fuelled criticism of BCP Council's priorities. Some residents argue that the council is more focused on developing flats and catering to students than supporting local businesses.
One disgruntled local shared on social media: “All the council want is flats, flats and more flats to increase the population to pay for useless bike lanes and nightclubs for the students."
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This sentiment reflects a growing frustration with the council's perceived lack of support for the town centres and local commerce.
With the upcoming May elections, there are calls for change in local leadership. As one resident put it: "Roll on May when we can get rid of the worst council we have ever had."
The controversy surrounding the parking decision has become a rallying point for those seeking new direction in local governance.
