Mike Penning joins Markyate Parish Council and local Councillors’ call for closure of lay-by.

Hemel Hempstead MP, Mike Penning, has joined with Markyate Parish Council and local Borough Councillors to campaign for the closure of the A5 lay-by that backs onto Long Meadow.

The ditch that runs alongside the lay-by is used as a place to dump rubbish by lay-by users. This is not only an eyesore but also a health and environmental hazard.

Another concern is that lorries sometimes overnight at the lay-by and the constant noise of the refrigeration units keep Long Meadow and London Road residents awake.

Local people are calling for the lay-by to be closed. There are several alternative lay-bys in the area which should be ample to meet the County Council’s obligation to provide places for long distance drivers to be able to rest. None of these other lay-bys are so close to people’s homes.

On Friday 14th August Mike convened a strategy meeting at the lay-by to explain the situation to representatives of Herts Highways and Dacorum and try to move this issue forward. Cllr Bert Chapman and Parish Council Chairman, Cllr Evelyn King, both attended and put the residents’ views.

Mike said:
“I will be taking this matter to the highest level. This lay-by is causing a lot of stress for local residents and would not be missed by long distance drivers as there are so many alternatives available.”

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