WHILE on the subject of free parking and at the risk of becoming tedious, I have been advised to inspect the situation in Buntingford. Previously, the High Street car park offered free parking. To the chagrin of community leaders this was changed for char

WHILE on the subject of free parking and at the risk of becoming tedious, I have been advised to inspect the situation in Buntingford.

Previously, the High Street car park offered free parking. To the chagrin of community leaders this was changed for charging.

In May the machines were installed - and the residents responded by parking in the adjacent side streets.

This situation prevailed over the summer, but when the schools returned recently the situation developed.

As Edwinstree School and Freman College ends the school day a condition of traffic chaos develops that is propbably hazardous.

This occurs because the parking in Bowling Green Lane renders it a single track road, up which buses and other vehicles have to negotiate.

On Friday, this occurred and the High Street car park was virtually empty.

The response of East Herts District Council is to post notice of the introduction of parking restrictions in the side streets concerned.

This has further antagonised some members of the local community to near incandescense.

In Royston, the charges for parking by North Herts District Council have contributed economically to a decline in the prosperity and High Street property values.

However, in Buntingford they are contributing to a major road safety issue that could result in death or injury of a young person.

Clearly, Buntingford needs its free car park back.

I am not against charging for parking, but it would seem appropriate to expect local government officials to think through the implications of their policy and decisions, in both cases.

A little more use of the grey matter, perhaps.

CARLO ZAMBONINI

Gresley Lodge

Old North Road

Royston