PARKING charges at all West Dorset District Council car parks have been frozen for the coming year.

The decision made by the council's executive committee means that the price for two hours' parking in a short stay car park has been held since 2005.

The freeze on all parking charges is part of the council's aim to help local businesses and residents, said council leader Robert Gould.

In a report to the executive committee, the council's technical services manager Steve Woollard stated that the economic downturn had affected the local economy.

Short stay parking had dropped by 11 per cent from April to December and the use of coastal car parks had decreased by 8.5 per cent.

Long stay parking in West Dorset was also down.

The freeze will also apply to shoppers permits which remain at £16 for six months and allow holders to park for two hours a day.

But in a move to halt instances of people misusing them, as reported to committee members, a once a day use will be imposed.

The council is also introducing a new scratch card service designed for business people and workers on call who need to call in and out of their workplaces frequently.

The scratch cards will entitle holders to six 20-minute parking sessions.

Mr Gould said: "We are working hard to support West Dorset's economy through tough times and freezing car parking charges is just one of the steps we are taking.

"Keeping charges low will help attract shoppers into our town centres, where they can enjoy a fantastic range of great shops, lovely cafes and other facilities."

The move was welcomed by Phil Gordon, project director of Dorchester BID - Business Improvement District.

He said: "It shows that the district council is on the pulse and realises that businesses are struggling and they need all the support they can get."

Residents and visitors to West Dorset can already take advantage of free parking on Sundays and overnight in district council-run car parks.

Dee Adcock