Issue - meetings

To consider any requests received in accordance with Part 4, Section B, paragraph 29 of the Council’s constitution.

A deputation was received from Paul Chau and Shefik Mehmet – Harringay Traders Association – and Ian Sygrave - Chair LCSP (Ladder Community Safety Partnership), in respect of item 12 Pay and Display Review.

NOTED the following points:

·        The increase in pay and display charges had adversely affected the Green Lanes economy.  Parking charges had increased from mid-band to high band (£1.40 - £3.00) and the Green Lanes CPZ was in operation from 8.00 – 18:30, resulting in very few spaces available to the public.

·        Since the increase in parking charges, small independent businesses were struggling for passing trade, as the parking that was available, was generally considered too expensive.  Businesses were closing and many were re-opening as restaurants and cafes.

·        The night time economy had not been affected by the increase in parking charges or by the CPZ – restaurants were expanding, leaving residents with fewer retails choices.  Currently, four restaurants had submitted applications to LBH Planning for change of use to extend their premises into adjacent A1 premises.

·        Alternatives were suggested in order to encourage visitors back to the area:

-          a clearly defined period of free parking on Green Lanes and the adjacent CPZs

-          free parking after a certain time on Saturdays

-          a reduced fee for specified times.

·                                                                                            The Committee were requested to take these points into consideration and refer the issue of Pay and Display charges back to full Council.

The following responses were provided to questions from the Committee:

·        When making any decisions with regards to parking (charging and CPZs), it was extremely important that local needs were understood.  Decisions which would affect an area could not be made on a ‘one size fits all’ basis.

·        Green Lanes should not be treated in the same way as Muswell Hill and Crouch End due to the diversity in the area.

·        There were many empty spaces in the CPZ roads during the operational hours, as it was not possible to pay for parking in those bays.

·        Signage in the area was confusing – this was also a barrier to those who used to drive to Green Lanes to shop.  Drivers who stopped to look at and understand signage were often caught on camera and sent fixed penalty notices.

The Chair thanked Mr Chau, Mr Mehmet and Mr Sygrave for attending the meeting.

There were two requests for deputations with regards to item 11 St. Ann’s redevelopment – the deputees requested that they speak at the start of the item.  Details of the deputation are shown under item 139 of the minutes.