A new strategy for car parking in the centre of Harpenden is to be developed to address growing demand.

St Albans District Council is looking at way to improve parking after concerns the total number of spaces is too small.

The review is being led by Councillor Beric Read, who is responsible for community engagement and localism at St Albans District Council.

He will consult over the next few months with district councillors from the affected wards and Harpenden town councillors, asking them for their views on the issue.

Council officer will update research into parking in the town, collecting and analysing data from the council’s car parks and bays about the occupancy rate and turnover.

This is helped by the council’s recent investment in new parking meters.

It is hoped that a new parking strategy could be adopted this autumn.

Cllr Read said: “Harpenden is a very lively and attractive town and it is clear that demand for parking is growing.

“It is now at the stage where we need to look and see what new approaches are required.

“I will be very interested to hear the views of the district and town councillors about what can be done.

“We will also be doing detailed research to get all the necessary facts and figures for a required for a review.

“I am hopeful that we will have agreed a new strategy by the end of the year to the benefit of residents, local businesses and visitors to the town.”