In March 2009 as the recession begain to bite across the country Nick wanted to launch a campaign to help local traders and shops get through these difficult times.

I was very pleased to be able to announce that we had joined forces with the local council to deliver practical help to support local businesses during these tough times. The campaign set out to encourage more use of local shops in an effort to ease the recession in Enfield.

With support from the leader of Enfield Council, Cllr Mike Rye we introduced free parking in both on-street and off-street pay and display parking bays on key shopping days throughout the year:

11th April, 2nd May, 23rd May, 29th August, 19th December 2009 and 2nd January 2010 (bank holiday weekends)

We issued posters to shops to promote the free days and won the support of the local press to offer to promote awareness of both the campaign and the goal of asking local people to support local shops more than usual.

On top of this, parking charges have been frozen for the second year in a row, there are 8 free car parks in the borough and no Sunday, bank holiday Monday or Evening charges.

Nick de Bois said "Without these businesses we would have more unemployment in the borough and see neighbourhoods decline. I am proud of the way we have all been able to deliver some positive action for our local traders, and is a good example of how working together we can achieve solid practical measures to help people."

This campaign is a part of a commitment by Nick de Bois that, if elected as Enfield North's MP he will work hard to drive more business and more jobs into the area.