CAR parking machines at Hengistbury Head have been badly damaged by vandals.

Bournemouth council says the machines have been inspected and are “completely beyond repair” following the incident, believed to have happened on Sunday night or Monday morning. Replacement machines are unlikely to be installed for several weeks.

Elaine Smith, deputy parking services manager, said the council was “aware of calls for free parking” in the meantime but could not offer this.

“In light of the lead-in time it takes to get the replacement machines this is unfortunately just not an option for the council, which uses parking income to fund other frontline council services.”

Car park users can use the Pay by Phone cashless parking service to pay for their stay, or purchase a ticket from the cash payment machine in neighbouring Solent Meads car park and use it at Hengistbury Head car park.

If you saw anything suspicious at Hengistbury Head on Sunday or Monday, report it to the police on 101 or call the council’s parking team on 01202 451268.