A CALL for all Barnet business owners to join forces against council parking charges was made this week to try and overturn recent changes to prices and payment methods.

The Barnet Society vice chair Gail Laser called for unity at a recent business forum in North Finchley, arguing that there was more chance of success if they rallied together.

“Businesses are suffering everywhere – but there is a lot happening. We need to work together.”

Parking charge increases and recent changes to cashless parking have caused concern and outrage among residents and traders throughout the borough.

They argue that the cost of parking it too high and pay-by-phone systems too inconvenient for shoppers, who are opting to shop in other areas where parking is easier and cheaper.

Labour councillors have joined the traders’ fight and have launched a petition online to try and force the matter back to full council.

Councillor Katherine McGuirk told a business forum in North Finchley on Thursday night that if 7000 signatures could be gathered, it would have to be discussed at full council.

“Local town centres will become ghost towns unless action is taken now – how can they compete when it is free to park at Brent Cross.”

The Labour councillors are also backing calls for a more flexible and cheaper scratch-card system, and a two week Christmas amnesty on parking across the borough.