New parking fees, rising four percent on average, anger Bournemouth businesses and shoppers.
Simone Ippolito, director of the Bournemouth Chamber of Trade, dislikes this plan, calling the increase a “lazy move.” He wants creative ideas for parking.
Simone thinks business costs are already too high and town centers need more visitors. He suggests business sponsorship of car parks to lower parking costs for drivers. He also proposes one hour of free parking, suggesting a parking app could keep profits local.
Keith McNicol, who runs Richmond Classics, finds parking charges a “joke” and a “shambles.” He once suggested a £1 charge for 30 minutes to create a steady income flow.
Instead, the council raised prices, upsetting Keith. Christmas parking was confusing because covered meters made payment unclear. He thinks free Christmas parking could have helped, as people now shop in Southampton instead.
Shoppers also dislike the fee increases. One shopper, Jayne Sheppard, is 65 and is bothered by constant increases. She states that rising costs discourage town center visits. Similarly, Alexandra Wallace might avoid Bournemouth too, noting Castlepoint offers free parking and more shops. She states that cheaper parking could draw people to town.
Rich Herrett, a BCP Council cabinet member, commented on the issue, stating price hikes will address financial issues.