Parking charges were on the agenda during August with traders concerned about changes to fees across the borough.

Shoppers and traders of North Harrow started a campaign against Harrow Borough Council's proposals to withdraw the hour's free parking offered in the Cambridge road car park.

The council, which planned to charge 80p an hour for the car park, said the changes were intended to make the cost of parking fairer across the whole borough, but Cllr James Bond feared the changes would be a step backwards for the area.

Later in the month it was announced there would be a trial of 20 minutes' free parking in Rayners Lane.

The scheme was welcomed by traders in the area, who hoped it would increase footfall and boost their business.

But concerns were raised by Conservative leader Susan Hall, who said the scheme was full of holes and could cost the council and taxpayers money.

A ‘unique’ centre which helps vulnerable women across the borough announced it was running out of money to stay open.

Harrow Women’s Centre, in Andrews Close, lost its funding of £68,000 from Harrow Borough Council from April 2013.

Managers did not know how long the centre would remain open and the closure would have a devastating effect.

More and more women are attending the centre with more than 1,000 seeking support last year.

The council said it would work with the charity to find alternative sources of income and would look at ways to minimise the accommodation costs of the site.