05 Sep 2024
The proposed introduction of charges for free car parks in Redbourn and London Colney has been quietly shelved by SADC – for now.
Council leader Cllr Paul de Kort told the St Albans Times: “There is no current consultation planned for either of these two locations. They were referenced in the February budget but not followed through at that time.
“Free car parks will always cost a council to maintain, so with current financial constraints, will tend to have limited spend on them (as this entirely funded by general Council Tax receipts). A future change in charging policy has always, therefore, to be a consideration.”
Nigel Gardner, who stood as the Conservative Party’s Parliamentary candidate in Harpenden and Berkhamsted, put parking charges at the top of his manifesto when campaigning for election.
He said in March: “With the cost of living crisis, these are the wrong policies at the wrong time. Not only are they wrong for residents, they will also make life harder for our hard pressed, hard-working high street traders. We need to put our high streets first, nurture them, and make it as easy as possible for people to visit. These changes do the opposite.”
After hearing that the consultation would not be proceeding, Nigel said: “This is excellent news for residents and businesses in Redbourn and indeed London Colney.
“I campaigned against these charges for free car parks, and I’m pleased the council has seen sense – at least for now.
“I’m still receiving emails and letters about the council’s plan to charge for on-street parking – which both businesses and residents oppose.
“I await the results of the consultation in the coming weeks – and pray the council sees sense here too.”
On the opposite side of the political spectrum, the proposals also met with objections from Labour councillors in London Colney, who condemned the plans for the Haseldine Road car park.
Cllrs Mike Hobday and Emma Turnbull insisted the charges would have had a negative impact on residents and businesses in the village, as the free car park was part of the original design of London Colney. They presented a petition signed by almost 700 people opposing the charges to SADC.
Upon hearing Cllr de Kort’s announcement, Cllr Hobday said: “If this is true, then it will be a tremendous relief for London Colney residents and businesses. We’re grateful to the council leadership for listening to local residents and to our campaign against car parking charges.”
Andrew Lee from Joii London Colney vets in Haseldine Road, said: “We are thrilled to hear that the local council has decided not to implement parking charges in the car park on Haseldine Road, London Colney. We strongly feel that this decision is beneficial, not only for our vet practice but for all local businesses. As a new addition to the community since June 2023, we understand how essential accessible, free parking is for our clients, staff, and local visitors. Free and plentiful parking encourages the use of the local facilities, supporting local businesses and ensuring the vibrancy of our community. We are committed to fostering a welcoming environment and believe that maintaining free parking is crucial in helping local trade thrive. We appreciate the local councils’ support in making this positive outcome possible.”
