11 Feb 2025
With retailers and residents still reeling in the wake of SADC’s decision to plough ahead with on-street parking charges in Harpenden, an entire level of one of the town’s biggest car parks has been indefinitely closed.
The upper tier of Bowers Way West has been shut for safety reasons until further notice – with some 100 spaces put out of action – after a structural weakness was identified during an inspection of the building by owners Edenrise Properties.
The car park is jointly leased by SADC and Sainsbury’s.
Council lead for parking, Cllr Helen Campbell, said: “This issue came as a bolt out of the blue and was completely unexpected.
“Sainsbury’s, who also lease some of the site, advised us about the issue and we had no option but to order the car park’s upper storey to be closed to ensure the safety of the public.
“It is most unfortunate news for Harpenden where demand for parking spaces is high.
“However, I am sure residents will understand that this issue is completely out of our control as we do not own the building or have responsibility for maintaining its structure, and safety needs to be the primary concern.
“Our car parking team has been at the scene and started discussions with Edenrise about the next steps. We will keep residents informed about any updates we receive.”
Bowers Way West season ticket holders will be allowed to use Bowers Way East, which has 148 spaces and three disabled bays, at no extra charge.
The council operates two other car parks in Harpenden with a further 532 spaces: Lydekker, which is owned by Harpenden Town Council, and Amenbury Lane.
