We Love West Hampstead

I purchased a flat in West Hampstead last year, which needed some much needed renovation. Whilst floral patterns, wood-chip wallpaper and pink ceilings were all the rage a few years ago, tastes have changed. My objective has been to take the Victorian flat back to its origins. This of course requires builders. Not cheap these days, especially now that builders can use the word “inflation” when quoting for business.

It is not only builders that are putting up their prices. Camden Council is also having some fun. Camden recently increased the cost of a Builder Parking Permit from around £10 to £33 per day. I repeat – per day! It is not a surprise that Mervyn King has a problem with inflation. Two weeks work, 2 vans equals £660. Is that fair?

Consumers are experiencing the worst economic conditions in years and Camden Council can increase the cost of a daily parking permit by over 200%. Why? Because permits are controlled and regulated by a public office. I am not suggesting that they should be privatised, but one would expect appropriate controls to be in place to maintain reasonable price increases. Public office and lack of competition should not lead to extortion. This is London, one of the leading Cities of the World.

I would be very interested to hear the views of your readers. I am really struggling to understand these prices rises.