• I READ this week that research by the RAC Foundation shows that Camden has the third largest parking fees and fines surplus after costs across London: £26.8million.

The Local Government Association says parking charge surpluses are spent on “essential transport projects”. LGA’s local transport spokesman said “parking charges keep the roads clear, help keep pedestrians, motorists and cyclists safe and enable people to park near their homes”.

But a report from the Asphalt Industry Alliance this year found that almost a fifth of roads in England and Wales were in “poor” condition. There are plenty of potholes in Camden.

I want to know more about how this £26.8million is being spent and wish to be reassured that a large chunk has not been used to pay the recent £2million plus fine incurred by the council’s mishandling of a recent highways maintenance contract.

Residents and businesses are surely entitled to detailed information and possibly a greater say in this matter.

CATHARINE WELLS
Laurier Road, NW5