03 Apr 2024
The backlash against SADC’s proposed removal of free car parking across the district has resulted in further condemnation from businesses.
The budget-saving exercise is part of a wider review of on-street car parking taking place over the coming months, and could mean the end of one and two hour free parking bays in Harpenden town centre.
Barrie Woolston, owner of Molasses House art gallery in Station Road, Harpenden, offered an insightful commentary on the process: “This proposal reaches a new high of stupidity.
“When all retailers across the country, let alone Harpenden, are facing increased costs and lower sales due to the economic climate, it is another kick in the teeth for the retailers, restaurants and commercial properties who rely on footfall to sustain their business.
“Forcing people to pay to park will simply drive yet more footfall to the commercial zones where the very same authorities have approved retail parks with free parking.
“The life blood of any community are the small independent business, who bring variety, personal service and vibrancy to an increasingly faceless, international-branded high street.
“This proposal is simply another way for SADC to hide the mis-management by the appointed representatives, of all political persuasions, who simply want to raise funds to pay for their inept and inefficient organisations, past and present.
“From a personal point of view, I know my business will be impacted by this imposition of parking charges.
“For instance, I receive frequent deliveries and collections from independent local artists, and buyers who have invested in these immensely talented individuals. Locating a free parking spot for 10/15 minutes whilst they deliver or collect artwork will now be an additional financial burden and hassle as they manage the inevitable ‘app process’.
“If it is the objective of SADC to drive away independent businesses from our town environment they will without question succeed to the detriment of the communities and citizens these public officials are appointed to serve.
“A Freedom of Information request in two years time will create a fascinating Venn diagram to understand the cost benefit analysis of this move, investing in technology, signage, appeals etc. versus the loss in business rates as a result of businesses simply closing and moving elsewhere versus simply employing one or two more traffic wardens to manage the existing free parking and the resulting fine income.
“I would predict this ridiculous proposal will be more costly and less cash generative than employing wardens to police the free parking spaces more effectively.”
Johnny Shepherd, founder of The Pudding Stop, which has a shop in Harpenden’s Church Green, said: “The free parking in Harpenden massively helps local businesses. It is such a perk to those visiting the town and I would urge the council to rethink charging for it. If the council were to scrap it many locals would be deterred from a brief trip into town.”
The council will be starting consultations on the proposals in May, with options including retaining free parking for a limited time near shops and essential services to support residents and businesses.
A council spokesperson said: “We will be carrying out both informal and formal consultations with businesses, residents and visitors when they can raise any issues with us.”
