BOURNEMOUTH University wants to extend the temporary use of two of its car parks in the Lansdowne for the public at evenings and weekends.

A planning application has been submitted to BCP Council to continue the change of use for the car parks at Studland House in Christchurch Road and Bournemouth Gateway in St Paul's Lane to allow dual education and public car parking use.

The two sites have a combined total of 279 car parking spaces, 10 blue badge spaces, 12 motorcycle bays and 368 cycle parking spaces.

The university obtained an initial three-year temporary use for the sites in 2019.

Council officers have advised the educational institution to seek permission for a further three years.

A statement submitted on behalf of Bournemouth University by Savills said data showed the car parks are operating significantly below capacity, likely due to the pandemic.

“The dual use is required so that BU can better manage and record the use of their car parks and benefit from the management contract income as part of an effort to develop a comprehensive transport plan,” the statement from Savills said.

If approved, members of the public would be able to use the car parks from 4pm to 7am Monday to Friday and 24 hours a day on weekends and on bank holidays.

The application is currently being considered by council planners.