11 Apr 2025
Harpenden MP Victoria Collins has taken the unprecedented step of directly confronting St Albans council leader Paul de Kort over on-street parking charges in the town.
She has asked whether it is possible to restore one-hour free parking, one of the key demands of local residents and businesses.
In the past, Victoria has avoided becoming directly involved in the row because of the defined jurisdictions of Member of Parliament and district council.
But the increasing groundswell of opposition to the fees seems to have prompted her to demand answers from the SADC leader in an open letter shared on her Facebook page.
“Constituents and local businesses alike have contacted me concerned that the charges are impacting their ability to head into town and impacting on businesses. Given the wider context of increases to business rates and employer National Insurance contributions, and the impact of the cost of living crisis on businesses and local people, it is a tough time for everyone, including local councils.
“Many understand this but local people and businesses want to ensure their legitimate concerns are heard and considered.
“In terms of the payment system, the face that there are different codes for the free 30 minute period and any subsequent paid period is creating added complexity.”
She asked him for clarification on key issues highlighted by her constituents.
“How is [SADC] measuring the impact of the changes on local residents and businesses in Harpenden, and ensuring an open dialogue with those businesses impacted? How and when will this be reviewed over the coming months?
“As part of a review, what is the feasibility of having one-hour free parking before any charges?
“What are the next steps for simplifying the payment system?”
Victoria promised to do what she could on behalf of SADC in exchange for a review of the current parking system: “There is no doubt that this is a difficult time for councils. Indeed I highlighted parking in a Parliamentary debate with MPs from across the country who highlighted that parking costs had gone up in their areas too and the impact this would likely have.
“Local councils are dealing with huge funding gaps left by years of central government cuts and increases in costs. I will therefore continue to call on the Government to improve local government funding and boost support for our local high streets in businesses.
“In return I call on the district council to review the situation and look at financially viable ideas on how to reform the parking system for local people and businesses.”
Cllr de Kort has been contacted for comment.
