WAITING restrictions have been introduced by a council this week for a number of roads surrounding a town centre.

The order by North Herts District Council, which came into effect on Monday, sees parts of Norton Way North, Norton Way South, Icknield Way and Pixmore Way in Letchworth GC become no waiting zones at any time.

Some parking spaces in Norton Way North will also become no waiting exceeding an hour with no return in two hours during peak times.

Speaking about the new parking restrictions, Cllr Tom Brindley, portfolio holder for planning and enterprise, said: “We were contacted by local businesses who told us that something needed to be done to help their customers find parking space close to their shops.

“Obviously it is important for people to be able to shop locally and we want to do everything we can to support the vitality of our towns. Hopefully these new parking arrangements will help do that.”

Reacting to the changes, Kim Simmonds-Hurn, owner of Wild Roses Lingerie in Norton Way North, said: “We had a lot of customers coming by and saying to us that they couldn’t park in the past so didn’t bother coming in.

“The bays are for the shops but you could get people parking there all day until now.

“I would like to thank Simon Young (transport policy officer) and Cllr Tom Brindley for not just talking about it but implementing it.”

How will the new parking restrictions affect you? Call the newsdesk on 01438 866200 or email nick.gill@thecomet.net to have your say.