Issue - meetings

The Chair to lead a Member’s discussion on potential actions arising from the Group Discussion.

The Chair led a discussion amongst Members and representatives present as to how the Council can support businesses in North Herts.

Audio Recording- 86 minutes 33 seconds

The Chair remarked that the presentations from the public gave a useful insight into businesses in North Hertfordshire and would help point the council in the right direction for solutions.

Councillor Ralph Muncer also thanked the public participants for their presentations and remarked that it is important that the Council understood the challenges faced by businesses in North Hertfordshire. Councillor Muncer also commented that the council wanted thriving town centres, with a larger footfall.

The Chair led a discussion amongst Members and public participants over concerns regarding car parking, and solutions to the issues.

Councillor Mandi Tandi noted that there is a similar issue with car parking in Knebworth, especially in the High Street. The implementation of cycle and walking lanes had affected parking around that area. Councillor Tandi also thanked the public participants for the insight into their businesses.

Tom Hardy, Hitchin BID, noted that ‘Pay on Exit’ car parks could be a solution. Regarding free or cheaper parking, he noted that caution must be taken that the car parks aren’t being used by non-customers of the town centre, such as commuters. He also noted that receipt-related incentives could be issued to shoppers who spent a certain amount in town.

Andrew Figgis, North Hertfordshire Economic Development Officer, noted that the council needed to try and get in touch with businesses like Mick’s Barbers and the owner Martin Berry.

The Chair remarked that the presentation and discussion had been useful and informative. He noted that lots of points had been raised, and that he found the rise in energy costs faced by businesses staggering.

N.B. Councillors Simon Bloxham and Ralph Muncer left the meeting at 9.08pm, following which the meeting was no longer quorate but the discussions continued, and as part of this it was suggested that car parking charges be discussed at a future meeting of the Panel.