AN increase in on-street parking charges across Dorset has taken residents by surprise - according to an informal reader poll.

Last Friday evening Dorset Council issued a reminder that the cost of on-street parking across the county had gone up that day.

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

Last Friday the Echo started a reader poll to find out how many residents were aware of the increase beforehand.

Dorset Echo: An overwhelming majority of those who had voted said they were not aware of the change before it came into force last FridayAn overwhelming majority of those who had voted said they were not aware of the change before it came into force last Friday

An overwhelming majority - 92 per cent - of those who voted said they were not.

While the poll is not an exact science it gives an indication of views.

Here's how much it now costs for on-street parking in the Dorset Council area

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.