As I wrote in December’s issue of Bushey News and in my New Year’s Q&A, the removal of free one-hour parking at Kemp Place Car Park is a major issue for local businesses and residents.

Last year, I convened a meeting with affected local business owners to hear directly about the impact of these charges. They were clear that the removal of free parking at Kemp Place has led to a drop in footfall on the High Street and, in turn, cut revenues. I raised businesses’ concerns forcefully with the council to press for the charges to be removed. Regrettably, these concerns fell on deaf ears.

Sadly, these warnings have now come true. Mavis of Bushey has announced that after 90 years serving our community, they will close their High Street shop at the end of February.

After visiting recently, the owners told me that parking restrictions and its impact on footfall, alongside costs, have made it impossible for them to continue trading locally. While I am pleased they will continue online at www.mavisofbushey.com, it is deeply disappointing to lose such a longstanding presence from the High Street. They also raised with me the introduction of a controlled parking zone on local streets, which is additionally concerning.

Bushey is fortunate to have a strong mix of independent shops that give the area its unique character and vitality. When a business like Mavis of Bushey closes, that character is diminished.

This could have been avoided. I have once again raised this with the council, urging them to listen to the voices of our local community and take practical steps to support the High Street, rather than hinder it. I will continue campaigning until we see a fairer outcome for Bushey.