42% rise in Hitchin parking fines sparks political row in North Herts

By James Denselow 17th Jul 2025

Do you know how to use car parks in Hitchin?
Do you know how to use car parks in Hitchin?

A sharp rise in parking fines across North Hertfordshire has triggered criticism of the district council's rollout of new parking machines, with Liberal Democrat councillors warning that the system is confusing and poorly managed.

New figures released at a council meeting on Thursday 10 July revealed that 2,246 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were issued in North Herts car parks between March and May 2025 – a 43% increase on the same period last year.

The data, disclosed in response to a question from Cllr Matt Barnes (Liberal Democrats), highlights significant jumps in fines across the district: Hitchin saw a 42% rise, Letchworth a striking 83%, and Royston a 22% increase, despite the closure of Princes Mews car park in April.

Liberal Democrat councillors have criticised the Labour-led council's handling of the transition to the new "pay on exit" machines, which were introduced earlier this year in an effort to modernise local parking.

Cllr Ruth Brown, Liberal Democrat group leader, expressed concern following the meeting:

"The increase in PCNs across the district is concerning, particularly as it was very avoidable. It's a shame the Labour administration have made the system so complicated that residents are finding it difficult to use."

Cllr Barnes, who raised the issue in the meeting, added: "Pay on exit should encourage people to stay longer and spend more in our town centres – but the rollout has gone badly. This data shows that hundreds of people have been penalised because the council failed to provide the right support."

In response, supporters of the scheme have defended the rollout, arguing that the rise in fines was mainly due to people incorrectly entering their vehicle registration numbers – not a flaw in the system itself.

The figures have fuelled an ongoing debate about the accessibility and user-friendliness of council-run services, with opposition councillors calling for clearer guidance and improved support for residents unfamiliar with the new technology.

As the parking machine rollout continues across the district, both residents and councillors will be watching closely to see whether the number of fines stabilises – or continues to climb.

     

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