Following a meeting of the North Herts Council Cabinet last night, the Conservative Group issued a statement decrying the decision by the Labour Administration "to increase parking charges in council car parks across the district".

In response to the proposals, the Conservatives have pledged to "bring forward an amendment to the Council Budget later this month, which if agreed, would freeze parking charges"

Cllr Ralph Muncer, the Leader of the Conservative Group said: "In North Herts we are fortunate to have such vibrant Town Centres, filled with a diverse array of independent local businesses". 

"But instead of supporting business, Labour has raised taxes, driven up inflation and are now increasing parking charges in our Town Centres, which will reduce the foot traffic local businesses rely on". 

 "Whilst Labour are putting the future of our Town Centres at risk, the Conservatives will amend the North Herts Council Budget to freeze parking charges across the district, thereby providing a much needed boost to our local economy". 

 "The Lib Dems now have a choice. Back our plan to freeze parking charges in North Herts, or support Labour and put our Town Centres at risk"

In response Cllr Daniel Allen, the Labour Leader of North Herts Council, accused the Conservatives of "playing politics with our town centres". 

Cllr Allen explained that "parking charges were frozen last year, and a 10p per visit increase in 2025 simply keeps up with rising costs while funding much-needed improvements".

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"After 14 years of Conservative government cuts to council funding, they now expect us to believe they care about high streets. Unlike their unfunded gimmicks, we're making real investments: Modernising parking systems with ticketless technology and pay-on-exit options, making visits easier and more convenient".