Drivers can look forward to cheaper parking in Harrow as part of the new council administration’s plans to support the borough’s high streets. 

Cllr Paul Osborn, leader of Harrow Council, repeated his pledge that it will offer one hour’s free parking in public car parks and on-street bays. 

Currently 20 minutes free parking is available, with a ten-minute grace period. 

Cllr Osborn said the increase will encourage residents to shop locally, which will be welcome news for Harrow’s many small and medium sized businesses.

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He said: “The high streets have faced really difficult times over the past few years and we’re very keen to support them. 

“If you’re a larger business, like a supermarket, you might already have free parking. We want to make sure everyone in Harrow has that opportunity.”

The council hopes to see the on-street changes in place “by the end of July”, though the car parks are likely to take a bit longer as it might involve replacing the current machines. 

Cllr Osborn acknowledged this will result in a loss of income, but said it was something he was prepared for and he is working with officers to account for it.

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He added: “We knew it would cost us money, but it just means we need to find it from another part of the budget. 

“We’re looking to reduce some of the back office costs and putting this money back into the hands of the people of Harrow.”

Alongside the car parking changes, the new administration wants to take inspiration from their Conservative colleagues in neighbouring Hillingdon and introduce a resident card. 

This free service has the potential to combine services such as libraries and leisure facilities, and could offer residents discounts for shopping in Harrow. 

Cllr Osborn said: “We know bills are going up, we know inflation is high, so we want to do all we can to help people. 

“And it’s about doing things to make things easier for residents. If you can integrate a number of things [on a single card] it becomes quite a powerful tool.”

The proposed free parking and the idea of a ‘Harrow Card’ will be discussed at the new council’s first cabinet meeting at 6.30pm on Tuesday (May 24).