THE cost of on-street parking across the Dorset Council area has gone up.

From Friday February 25, on-street parking charges have increased as part of Dorset Council’s parking transformation project.

On-street parking spaces will be charged at a higher price than compared to car park prices at the same location.

The council said its aim is to generate a higher turnover of cars – helping keep on-street spaces for Blue Badge Holders "and giving all residents better access to local businesses when popping into town for a quick visit."

Waivers can still be purchased for tradespeople who need to park for work.

The decision to increase on-street parking charges was made in November 2021.

"The changes will see a more consistent approach to on-street charging, following the same tiered approach as upcoming Dorset Council car park price changes," a council spokesperson said.

Here's how much it now costs to park in Dorset

On-street charges

Blandford

Daytime charges (8am-6pm)

1 hour – £1.50

Overnight (6pm-8am) free

Dorchester

Daytime charges (8am-6pm)

1 hour – £1.50

Overnight (6pm-8am) free or £2 (please check at location)

Swanage

STATION ROAD

daytime charges (8am-6pm)

30 minutes – £1.00

1 hour – £1.50

Overnight (6pm-8am) free

SHORE ROAD

daytime charges (8am-6pm)

1 hour – £2.50

2 hours – £3.50

3 hours – £4.50

4 hours – £6.00

10 hours – £12.00

Overnight (6pm-8am) £4

Wareham

Daytime charges (8am-6pm)

1 hour – £1.50

2 hours – £2.00

3 hours – £3.00

4 hours – £4.00

Overnight (6pm-8am) free

Weymouth

BEACH AREA

daytime charges (8am-6pm)

30 mins (where available) £1.50

1 hour – £2.50

2 hours – £3.50

3 hours – £4.50

4 hours – £6.00

Overnight (6pm-8am) £4

WESTHAM BRIDGE

daytime charges (8am-6pm)

1 hour – £2.00

2 hours – £3.00

3 hours – £4.00

4 hours – £5.00

10 hours – £10.00

Overnight (6pm-8am) free

Drivers are urged to check the machine in the area you are parking. For mobile payment users, the JustPark app will be updated with the new fees from 25 February.