A COUNCIL is clamping down on people who abuse parking outside a shop, after a complaint from the manager.

Customers at the Highbury Road post office and store in Hitchin had trouble parking outside the shop, with residents also reporting problems.

After manager Gurmit Cheema complained to North Herts District Council (NHDC), it introduced a new short stay parking policy. Up to four cars can now park outside the shop, Monday to Saturday, for up to 20 minutes.

“Until now, there has not been much space for people to park and some people who did park there were staying all day,” said Mr Cheema.

“It was stopping local people from coming in, especially people with disabilities. I am very pleased that the council has listened to me and done something about it.”

Residents in the area who use the road for overnight parking are not affected.

Cllr Tom Brindley, NHDC’s portfolio holder for planning, transport and enterprise, said: “It’s vitally important to do what we can to support local businesses, especially in the current economic climate. Mr Cheema came to use with a problem, and we’re pleased to be able to provide a solution.

“Not only does this support a local business, but it benefits people who live in and around the area who will now be able to use their local shops more easily.

By providing more short stay parking, we are also helping to ensure that cars don’t park on yellow lines, which are in place to promote safety and free flow of traffic.”

The district council is also encouraging people who have a similar issue to get in contact. Visit www.north-herts.gov.uk for further details.