Penalty charge notices rise 15% across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole amid parking crackdowns
Nearly 100,000 parking fines were issued to drivers parked on double yellow across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
The number of parking fines issued across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole has risen sharply over the past two years, with almost 95,000 penalty charge notices (PCNs) handed out in 2024, new figures reveal.
Data obtained by the AA through Freedom of Information requests shows that 1.6 million PCNs were issued nationally last year to drivers who parked illegally on single or double yellow lines.
In BCP, council data shows an increase of nearly 15% in just two years - from 83,913 fines in 2022 to 94,999 in 2024.
Parking on double yellow lines is prohibited at all times except for limited circumstances, such as when a blue badge holder is present.
Single yellow line restrictions apply only during specified hours, indicated on nearby signage.
Motorists caught parking illegally face two levels of penalty: £70 for higher-tariff offences, or £50 for lower-tariff ones - both reduced by half if paid within 14 days.
While the fines are set by government, the revenue is retained by councils to fund parking and road infrastructure.
The rise in enforcement follows growing frustration from residents over dangerous and inconsiderate parking, particularly along the coast during the summer.
In August, BCP Council ran a trial of increased PCN rates along coastal roads from Southbourne to Sandbanks to test whether higher penalties deterred illegal parking in high-demand areas.
A report on the trial is due to be published once approved by the Department for Transport.
Councillor Richard Herrett, BCP Council’s portfolio holder for car parking, said: “We are consistently calling for more powers to tackle dangerous and irresponsible parking.
“The majority of visitors to our area park responsibly, but those that don’t should expect to be fined or towed. The easiest way to avoid this is by parking legally.”