MR Foster (Letters, Daily Echo, March 24) is absolutely right to question the amount of car parking being provided within the new developments coming forward across Bournemouth town centre and I value his interest in this subject.

The council recognises the importance of providing adequate parking facilities for both residents and visitors alike and we ensure that any new proposals coming forward will provide enough on site spaces for all users.

Planning policies require that any ‘lost’ parking spaces are re-provided on site or close by.

I would like to reassure Mr Foster that commercial factors do not outweigh the need to provide a generous amount of parking for Bournemouth’s residents and visitors. With careful planning and closely monitoring the need of the motorist we shall continue to get the right balance of car parking for all town centre users.

Cllr Dave Smith Central Ward, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Planning and the Environment