Go-ahead for controversial CPZ in Highgate

CONTROVERSIAL plans to extend the Highgate Station outer controlled parking zone have been approved by Haringey Council. Proposals to expand the CPZ to include Hampstead Lane and surrounding streets were slammed last year by residents. They said it was a

CONTROVERSIAL plans to extend the Highgate Station outer controlled parking zone have been approved by Haringey Council.

Proposals to expand the CPZ to include Hampstead Lane and surrounding streets were slammed last year by residents.

They said it was a stealth tax and would deter people from using Hampstead Heath.

Critics included the Brew House at Kenwood, Highgate Hospital, Heath users and residents.

Objectors said they did not need a CPZ as most residents had off-street parking and the station was a 25-minute walk away.

Despite being approved, it will now only include Stormont Road, Denewood Road and Sheldon Avenue.

Highgate Society transport spokesman Richard Webber said: "We are bemused by the decision and we cannot understand the logic of it. We will be asking serious questions of the leaders as to how the decision came about."

The CPZ will stop people parking between 10am and noon except those with residents' permits. It should be in operation by the end of March.

A Haringey Council spokeswoman said: "During our consultation, residents in Stormont and Denewood Roads and Sheldon Avenue said they wanted to be included in the CPZ and that is exactly what we are doing.

"We believe the extension will have a positive impact on tackling the problems caused by commuter parking in the area.