Brent Council considering a U-turn over parking charges hike

Town hall might scrap plans for a second increase in April

A controversial hike in parking charges which had motorists and traders up in arms could be scrapped after it was revealed that Brent Council is considering a U-turn.

Earlier this month the council said it would be raising the price for pay and display parking for 20 minutes from 60p to £1.10 from April.

However, following strong opposition from residents, traders and the opposition Liberal Democrat party, it has announced it is looking at a “dramatic” reduction.

After the first 20 minutes’ parking, a new charge by the minute could be introduced by the council.

Last year, the council was heavily criticised after it installed meters in Bridge Road, East Lane and Preston Road, all in Wembley. Traders across all three parades spoke out about the effect it was having on their businesses.

Brent Council leader Cllr Muhammed Butt said: “While no final decision will be made until we have consulted fully with residents and councillors, we are looking closely at dramatically reducing charges for the first 20 minutes of parking.

‘‘I’m strongly in favour of it as I believe it will help local businesses and residents at a time when they need it most. But we will have to see what the public thinks first.”