Parking is a priority for Harpenden, say traders

PARKING facilities that meet the needs of shoppers are top of the agenda for a new retail group set up in Harpenden. Under the chairmanship of local businessman Keith Lunn, it has established a number of goals including better parking arrangements for vis

PARKING facilities that meet the needs of shoppers are top of the agenda for a new retail group set up in Harpenden.

Under the chairmanship of local businessman Keith Lunn, it has established a number of goals including better parking arrangements for visitors to the town.

It also wants to refresh the Keep It Local campaign, improve the street scene and update seasonal lights.

Keith said: "The town needs to have parking facilities that meet visitors' needs. As retailers we are all investing a lot of money in trying to keep Harpenden vibrant - we want the district to do the same.

"The current parking arrangements of one hour free on-street and exorbitant charges for off-street parking makes it a switch-off to many potential customers and I know because I get the brunt of it."

The retail group, which was established by the town and district councils, discussed the opportunities of a new loyalty card being promoted through the Keep It Local campaign which would enable residents to benefit from in-store savings being offered by retailers.

Improvements to the street scene were considered an important element of the continued vibrancy of the town and the group is also considering ways in which festive lights in the town can continue to bring the largest number of seasonal visitors to Harpenden.