Luton, (special correspondent) __ A significant meeting involving business leaders and community representatives was convened in Bury Park, Luton’s bustling commercial district, under the leadership of Riaz Zaman, Chair of the Bury Park Business Forum. This engagement included stakeholders from local mosques, churches, and community activism groups.

Central to the discussions was the concern that while traffic congestion and parking are pressing issues in Bury Park, the proposed implementation of a Red Route may not only fail to alleviate these challenges but could exacerbate them, ultimately threatening the viability of local enterprises. Attendees urged Luton Borough Council to pivot towards more pragmatic solutions to the parking crisis.

Critically, it was underscored that the proposed Red Route would eliminate the ability to briefly drop off or pick up visitors at retail locations or places of worship, even for a mere two minutes.

Riaz Zaman articulated the community’s position, stating, “We have clearly articulated our stance to Luton Borough Council and its councillors. The council’s consultation document is accessible online, and a public survey will determine if the Red Route trial proceeds. We believe the goals of this consultation and the current Red Route framework are fundamentally flawed. Essential alternative strategies to enhance Bury Park’s infrastructure are not being addressed.” He asserted the need for thoughtful investment from the council, which includes establishing a dedicated parking facility.

Former Deputy Leader of Luton Council, Councillor Raja Mohammad Aslam Khan, provided insights on the dynamics of Bury Park, which attracts thousands for commerce and dining. He noted that the proposed Red Route inadequately addresses the pressing need for investment in public transit solutions, such as dedicated bus lanes and sustainable transport alternatives, nor does it propose viable parking options. Rather, it risks transferring traffic issues to adjacent streets.

The local business community and residents have forwarded alternative proposals to the council. It is critical for stakeholders to engage in this consultation process and express their viewpoints, as the forthcoming decisions will have significant ramifications for the sustainability of Bury Park as a thriving commercial and cultural hub, a legacy fostered through generations.

The meeting featured notable participants, including Mohammad Alyas, Executive Secretary of the Bury Park Business Forum, representatives from Luton Central Mosque, Haji Choudhry Muhammad Qurban, as well as Choudhry Muhammad Sharif from the UK Islamic Mission Madina Mosque. Other key figures included Maulana Umar (Masjid Noor), Rashid saib (Islamic Centre), Hisham Parker (Kokni Mosque), Shahid saib (President, Bury Park Mosque), Aziz saib (Bury Park Mosque), along with Edward and Paul (Cojack Church), Muhammad Yaser (Bury Park Business Forum), Azad Ali (Vice President, Crescent Hall and Bury Park), Councillor Amji, Riaz Butt, Abdullah Khan, Muhammad Nisar, Mrs. Shazia, Sultan Khan, Dr. Yaseen Rehman, and representatives from Inspire Radio and the Afghan community, among many others dedicated to the advancement of Bury Park.