A NEW park-and-ride service in Bournemouth launches today - and it will be running throughout the bank holiday weekend.

The transport will run from King's Park to Boscombe Pier, with council chiefs hoping it will assist in alleviating pressure on seafront and town centre car parks.

Users will be asked to pay £5 per car to park before they can board a Morebus service, which will run every 15 minutes, for free.

Councillor Mike Greene, BCP Council's portfolio holder for transport and sustainability, said: "We know that people will be eager to return to the area and make the most out of our award-winning beaches this summer."

 

He added: "By facilitating park and ride at these key locations, we will improve our ability to welcome people back and manage the anticipated additional demand on the network.

"This will also help to ensure that everyone can enjoy a relaxed, memorable and safe experience at the busiest time of the year."

The service will run every weekend in June and July before operating every day over the school holidays from July 24 to September 1.

A park-and-ride service from Poole Civic Centre to Sandbanks is due to to run from July 24 to September 5.

Andrew Wickham, managing director at Morebus, said: "Helping to alleviate congestion, this service will provide an excellent travel alternative for residents, families and visitors.’’