Hertsmere’s Labour-led administration has confirmed that Newberries Car Park in Radlett will be retained, resurfaced and improved, safeguarding this vital community facility for the long term.

At October’s Cabinet meeting, councillors agreed to keep Newberries Car Park in council ownership after a full review of options for redevelopment or sale. The decision follows extensive technical work that examined flood risks, potential redevelopment costs, and market interest.

The previous Conservative administration spent hundreds of thousands of pounds on studies and consultancy workwithout bringing forward a deliverable plan. In contrast, the new administration has done the due diligence, tested the market, and made a clear and cost-effective decision that secures a steady income for local taxpayers while improving a much-used public asset.

Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Asset Management, Cllr Jeremy Newmark, said:

“Our action has ended the extended period of uncertainty around this site that we inherited from the previous administration. Our practical, community-focused decision protects one of Radlett’s most valuable public facilities. We’ve satisfied our external auditors that we have looked at every option, and it’s clear that retention and refurbishment represent the best outcome for residents and for council finances.”

Under the approved plans, the council will now move forward with detailed design and specification work to resurface and reline the car park, improving safety and accessibility. The site will also benefit from new electric vehicle charging points, helping Radlett move towards a cleaner, greener future.

At the same meeting, Cllr Nik Oakley, Portfolio Holder for Planning, announced that following a successful community application, Newberries Car Park has been designated an Asset of Community Value (ACV) — formally recognising its importance to Radlett’s residents, local businesses and visitors.

“This car park isn’t just tarmac and white lines,” said Cllr Oakley. “It supports the village centre, helps local shops thrive, and now carries the recognition it deserves as a true community asset.”

The Cabinet report noted that redevelopment would have required major flood mitigation work costing around £200,000 just to reach feasibility stage — with no guarantee of a viable outcome. The car park currently generates around £170,000 a year in income, which would have been lost had the site been sold.

By retaining ownership, the council keeps control of this strategic site, protects its income stream, and avoids speculative risk.

This decision reflects the Labour-led administration’s focus on protecting public assets, making sound financial choices, and investing in Hertsmere’s communities — in sharp contrast to the indecision and wasted expenditure of previous years.