Barnet’s Labour Council has offered a resolution to parking problems on Mays Lane shopping parade in Underhill ward.
As part of an extension to controlled parking in the area, charges were introduced outside the shopping parade in order to prevent displaced all day parking and enable shoppers to park.
However, local businesses felt that this was discouraging shoppers from parking close by and brought a petition to the council’s Cabinet. The Labour administration has engaged with shop owners and has found a way through, by charging for parking only between 2pm and 3pm.
Underhill Councillor Josh Tapper said: ““I want to thank the more than 1,300 residents who have signed the petition and in particular May’s Pets shop who have led on this issue.
“I’ve listened closely to residents since I was elected just last month, and I am proud to be part of a listening council who have found a positive outcome that supports our local businesses. We will see if this new arrangement works, and if problems persist we will continue to find a way forward.
Councillor Alan Schneiderman, Labour’s cabinet member of Environment and Climate Change, said: “It’s tricky to find a consensus when it comes to parking, but I’m glad that by talking to residents, businesses, local councillors and MP we have found a solution. We’re committed to working together to support our high streets.”
Dan Tomlinson, Member of Parliament for Chipping Barnet, said: “This is a big win for Mays Lane businesses – traffic measures should help communities, not hinder them. I’ve been pushing hard for this change, and I’m glad the council has listened and acted.
“It is so important that we limit the barriers to local people shopping in local businesses. I have been working to revitalise our high streets, both the big and the small, and know how much of a difference parking availability can make to shoppers’ choices.
“I’m grateful to Councillor Josh Tapper, residents, and business owners for making their voices heard on this.”
