Highgate’s Liberal Democrat councillors have described as very constructive the first consultation meeting over the proposed controlled parking zone (CPZ) for the area.

Councillors Melanie Simpson, Bob Hare and Neil Williams, who all attended the first consultation meeting last week with local resident groups, received strong support for their proposal that a steering group of representatives from local residents’ associations should be set up to oversee the process.

The Lib Dems say this is vital, as they want Highgate residents and businesses to know that they are the ones in charge of deciding on any parking scheme that is put forward, and to ensure that the maximum number of Highgate residents participate in the process.

Lib Dem councillor Bob Hare comments:

“This was a very good meeting. We are delighted that our suggestion of a steering group received strong support from local residents groups.Residents should rightly be in charge of the process.

“Having covered the area around the tube station, in the coming weeks there will now be similar meetings with residents groups from Highgate village, and with local businesses who have a vital role to play.

“We will continue to work together in a sensible way and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard.Resident’s must themselves make the key decisions on parking controls in Highgate.”