Plans to reduce free Kings Langley parking sparks 4,000 objections

The 3,840-strong petition was delivered to Dacorum Borough Council last week to coincide with the launch of a three week consultation over the plans.

Dacorum Borough Council said inflation had increased by 28 per cent since parking fees were last increased in 2019, and that the changes were needed to “recover costs and effectively manage the council’s budget”.

Kings Langley Parish Council clerk Matthew Price, and councillors Howard Button and Jennie Lydon delivered the petition. (Image: Kings Langley Parish Council) But traders have warned the changes, which would be introduced in November if approved, would be a “sad day” for the high street as they could confuse people and push them to shop elsewhere.

The plans would keep 25 free bays at the ends of the high street, but reduce the allowance to 30 minutes from an hour with no return within two hours. 

A parking charge would be introduced for 28 previously free spaces in the centre, costing 80p for 30 minutes and £1.50 for the hour with no return allowed.

The Nap and Langley Hill car parks will remain free with a new four-hour limit between 8am and 6pm.

Karen Stocker, who runs the Froxx plus-size clothes shop, said 30 minutes was not enough for customers who rely on the on-street parking as the nearby car parks are often full.

“If they [on-street parking spaces] are reduced or charged, I fear the high street will decline,” she said. “I'm already considering other options for when my lease renewal comes up in 2025.

“It'll be a sad day for the village if these proposals go ahead.”

Keith Strickland, Steve Hunt, Martin and Alex Smith, Howard Button, Beverly Ford, Jennie Lydon, Sian Turner, Matthew Price, Sue Hawkins and Claire Carpentier have all objected to the proposed changes. (Image: Kings Langley Village News) Kings Langley Parish Council chair Howard Button said: “Everyone loves our high street because of its small, independent shops.

“But these proposals will drive shoppers to places like Sainsbury's in Apsley with their free parking.”

The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), which works with around 6,000 independent businesses, has urged the borough council to reconsider the proposals.

The proposed changes. (Image: Dacorum Borough Council) Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre said: "Accessible and affordable parking is vital for supporting local businesses and encouraging footfall in town centres. 

• Kings Langley High Street parking consultation delayed
• Plan keeps 25 free parking bays in Kings Langley High Street

“These proposed changes from Dacorum Borough Council threaten to make Kings Langley less accessible for shoppers and risk driving them away to retail parks with free parking."

Dacorum councillor Michela Capozzi, portfolio holder for corporate and commercial services, said they were “working hard” to reduce costs where possible.

“We made sure that we engaged with residents on this issue and have been careful to ensure we can continue to offer competitive pricing locally for parking,” Cllr Capozzi added. “This will enable us to balance our budgets to provide essential and discretionary services to our residents.”

Residents can share their views on the plans on the Dacorum Borough Council website until July 31.