Free parking in St Albans branded 'stupid' and 'counter-productive' (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Free parking in St Albans branded 'stupid' and 'counter-productive'

12:30pm Friday 27th November 2009 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
• Comments(2)

A MOTION to introduce two hours of free parking across the district in a bid to attract shoppers was branded "stupid" and "counter productive" - before being rejected.

Teresa Heritage - seconded by St Albans Conservative group leader Julian Daly - raised the issue at Tuesday night's full council meeting following pressure from busineses and traders to ease parking restrictions in the economic climate.

The Tory councillor for Harpenden South proposed to introduce free on-street parking and parking in all shopping areas of the district for up to two hours from Monday through to Saturday to encourage economic activity.

Councillor Heritage said: "In the past 18 months traders have had to battle to keep their stores open - some sadly have failed.

"We need to do more to encourage locals and people outside the district to visit St Albans and the shopping areas.

"We're surrounded by Watford, Luton and Hemel Hempstead, which offer an advance shopping experience - we have to do more."

But the move was met with a groundswell of disapproval, with opposition councillors arguing new parking regulations would have a detrimental effect, and cost the authority £1.3 million each year in revenue thus increasing council tax by ten per cent.

Liberal Democrat county councillor Chris White, who represents St Albans Central and Clarence Ward, hit out at the proposal, arguing a two-hour free parking limit would drive customers away, rather than encourage them into the area.

"Parking for two hours would have a detrimental effect," he said. "People would leave within the two hours."

The relevant portfolio holder Anthony Rowlands, said: "It is difficult to believe that they are serious. It is significant that this is the first time they have mentioned such a proposal and have brought it straight to full council rather than the Car Parking Working Party where it could have had proper consideration.

"Not only would such a proposal cost a small fortune, but it would also increase pressure on retailers. Many local shops depend upon a rapid turnaround and this would encourage longer stays and thus fewer shoppers. It is a nonsese."

Councillor Michael Green, who represents St Peter's Ward, added: "I am sure those who have paid good money for a parking permit will not be too impressed to find others using their residents' parking spaces for free."

Councillors objecting to the move pointed out the new parking rules would also discourage the use of public transport.

The motion was rejected by a majority of 33 to 17, with three abstentions.