CAR parking charges have soared in the last few years while income has taken a dive and now Poole is seeking public views on car parking in the town.

Ahead of the annual parking report, due to go before Borough of Poole’s transportation advisory group on October 25, the council is carrying out a strategic review of parking.

This will cover all aspects from enforcement issues to the cost of a ticket and the review will take place in two phases with the first focusing on the council’s priorities for developing its policies on car parking.

As part of this phase of the review the council wants to find out what people think about Poole’s car parking now and in the future, whether they use it for shopping, work or leisure.

Last year drivers turned their backs on the 40 car parks, not just in the town centre but also at the beaches. Income was down a massive £444,469 on that expected for the year with “poor weather, general economic factors and changes in the use of car parks” blamed.

Motorists already facing near-record petrol prices were hit by hikes in parking charges three times in 2010, in October 2011 and some in April this year.

Cllr Xena Dion, cabinet portfolio holder for transport said: “We know that parking is an emotive subject and we would all like to park for free. However, parking charges make a vital contribution to the council’s budget for local services.

“This strategic car parking review will help us to produce a fair, sensible and robust plan for the future of parking across the borough and is an opportunity for residents and businesses to inform that process by sharing their views.”

Residents can submit their views via an online questionnaire at boroughofpoole.com /carparkingreview until Friday October 19. Alternatively, you can request a paper copy of the questionnaire by calling 01202 633086 or by sending an email to research@ poole.gov. uk. A questionnaire for businesses is also available.

Any questions about Borough of Poole's strategic car parking review should go to 01202 261329.