A Weymouth café owner has called the town's parking charges ‘extortionate’ despite winter price drops kicking in.

The winter car park charges come into affect on Wednesday, November 1, however, the cost at some car parks in the town will be at similar levels to last summer.

Amanda Mitchell, who owns and runs Suttons café on St Albans Street in Weymouth is angered at the impact the charges have had on her business.

She said: “They are extortionate rises; it has really impacted us. People often complain when they come in at how expensive it is and they say they won’t come back.”

Recent figures reported by the Echo revealed that after expenses, Dorset Council raked in over £10million from its car parks in the 12 months to March 2023.

With the council generating millions  from vehicle users, businesses in Weymouth feel that they have been singled out, and that over winter residents will chose to visit other towns.

Ten hours have reduced from £15 to £9 at car parks in Weymouth, including Melcombe Regis, Swannery, Weymouth Beach, Overcombe, Lodmoor and the Pavillion. Although, they were £10 in the summer of 2022. 

Mrs Mitchell added: “The council are not on our side. It’s been a rotten summer and with no shops people don’t stay as long.

“I have had customers say that they go to Dorchester as its easier because they have more shops, and the parking is cheaper.

“What if they give us an hour for free, or four hours for the price of three in some areas like they use to in winter - it is ridiculous."

READ: 'Anger and frustration' at parking charges as petition tops 7,600

When the new parking charges for this year were announced in March, the council stated that it was to help cover the increasing costs of running and maintain their car parks.

The Echo asked why it still felt the increased charges were needed, despite generating millions in sales the previous year, and raised concerns of Weymouth businesses feeling unfairly targeted.

READ: Retiree 'disgusted and outraged' at Dorset parking charges

A spokesperson for the council, said: “The income received from our parking tariffs helps us meet the rising costs of running our car parks and maintaining our roads.

"As government grants have reduced over the years, this takes the financial burden away from council taxpayers.

“Regarding Weymouth, the matter was debated by the council’s cabinet in September.”

Suttons is one of the oldest cafes in the town and Mrs Mitchell believes that her business could be under serious threat if more isn't done to make the town more enticing.

She continued: “Absolutely – you don’t do it for the fun to get up at 3am everyday. It gets more and more difficult every year."

For a full list of the car parking tariffs visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/new-parking-charges-2023