I read the comments about parking from Conservative Councillor Dean Cohen, chairman of Barnet Borough Council’s environment committee (Times Series, February 19) with total incredulity. It is a long time since I have read so much claptrap. He really must think we are all thick.

Placing his article next to that of Labour Cllr Varshar Parmar, Harrow Borough Council’s environment, crime and community portfolio holder, showing how short-term free parking in Harrow has been a roaring success for local shops, says it all. How many letters and articles have we seen from high-street businesses in Barnet showing a clear correlation between the rise in parking charges and the drop in custom?

Of course the internet has changed the way we shop, but just pop into Brent Cross to see just how many of us still prefer to see what we are buying. And of course, parking there is free all day.

Clearly, Barnet Council prioritises short-term profit from parking charges and fines over the long-term success of its businesses. Shops are closing right, left and centre as a direct result of the council’s policies, and any gain from parking must be counterbalanced against the resultant loss of business rates. When will the council ever wake up?

Michael Davis

Elm Park Gardens, Hendon