Meriden parking 'dreadful' as car park remains closed

Prior to the regeneration project, which started in 2018, there were parking bays outside the row of shops in The Gossamers.

But after the parade was moved to York Way the bays were not reintroduced - and a temporary car park is currently still closed.

Steve Cooper, a driving instructor from Garston who uses the Meriden for lessons, said it has led to "dangerous and illegal parking" outside the shops.

He added: “How no-one has been knocked over and hit yet I have no idea.

“I understand that people must use the shops but there are double yellow lines there.

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“I’ve seen people park up and chatting away for what appears to be minutes.

“I know there is a car park in place, but it is not usable yet.”

The temporary car park is closed. Picture: Kimberley Hackett

Mr Cooper, 52, explained that cars parked on the footpath make it difficult to see the road as drivers turn left from Meriden Way onto York Way.

Helen Berthiaume, who has lived in Phillipers for 11 years, branded the parking situation "dreadful" compared to before.

She added: “Before the regeneration there were masses of spaces.

Steve Cooper wants cars to stop parking on the pavement. Picture: Steve Cooper

“Now they literally park on the pavements because they have not got anywhere else to park.

“It’s not fair on people who use wheelchairs, Zimmer frames, or parents with pushchairs.”

Left, bays were in place outside the old shops. Picture: Google Street View. Right, people are parking on the street. Picture: Kimberley Hackett

Watford Community Housing, which is responsible for the regeneration project, has confirmed that a temporary car park is in place but has not confirmed its opening date.

A spokesperson said: “Naturally, we share residents’ concerns about dangerous and illegal parking, which should be reported to the appropriate authority whenever possible.

Helen Berthiaume. Picture: Kimberley Hackett

“We’re working with both Hertfordshire County Council and our contractor to finalise the temporary parking facilities as quickly as possible.

“These will be made available as soon as we have been given the necessary permissions to complete the works.”

HCC has been approached for a response.  

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