Residents are being asked for their views on a new parking permit.

Following the announcement Dorset Council would be making changes to its car parks – including charging until 8pm and on Sundays, as well as price increases in some West Bay car parks – a consultation on shopper's permits has launched.

The permits would provide a money-saving, cash-free way to park in Dorset Council-owned car parks around the county.

Bridport residents and those also in the former West Dorset District Council area have been able to purchase permits from several years. All Dorset residents are now being asked if this should be extended across the Dorset Council area, or if the existing scheme should be brought to a close.

Dorset Council estimates the permits would cost the authority at least £50,000 per year due to administration and reduced parking revenue, however, it states, "with many town centres struggling due to Covid-19, the introduction of shopper's permits could encourage people to visit their local towns more frequently".

Councillor Ray Bryan, Dorset Council portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said: "Western Dorset residents have been able to purchase shoppers permits for several years and we are asking people across the county if this is something they'd also like to benefit from.

"Offering residents a convenient and cost-saving way to park would encourage them to shop locally, supporting businesses and breathing life back into our high streets at a time when many shops are struggling.

"However, it could have a financial impact on the council through reduced revenue and administration charges, and we want to know how people feel about this too.

"Please give us your thoughts by taking part in the consultation."

The current shopper's permit is a cardboard disk which is displayed in vehicle windscreens. The new permit may be virtual where the registration number allows access for a set period in short stay car parks.

The consultation runs from October 30 to midnight on December 6, 2020. It takes around five minutes to complete here.

Paper copies of the survey will be available in Dorset libraries from early November. Please call ahead before visiting or check opening times here.

Shopper's parking permit holders for the former West Dorset District Council area currently get two hours' parking per day – or three hours if a disabled badge is also displayed – seven days a week. At extra cost to the purchaser, the permit can be used in a second vehicle but not on the same day. The consultation asks if shoppers would like the permit to allow them to park for more than two hours.

If a decision is made to stop the scheme, the current west Dorset permits will remain valid until their expiry date.