Gregory Stafford, MP for Farnham and Bordon, has called for urgent measures to protect local businesses from the expected disruption caused by the next phase of the Farnham Infrastructure Programme (FIP).

The FIP, led by Surrey County Council in partnership with Waverley Borough Council and other stakeholders, is a long-term initiative designed to improve traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and air quality in Farnham.

While welcoming the goals of the project, Mr Stafford warned that without immediate local support, the short-term impact on the town centre could be damaging.

“Farnham’s future depends on its businesses surviving the present,” said Mr Stafford. “We all want to see a safer, cleaner, better-connected town — but that can’t come at the cost of the very businesses that give Farnham its character and vitality.”

Mr Stafford criticised Waverley Borough Council for increasing parking charges ahead of significant construction works, including the closure of Downing Street, one of the town’s key trading areas.

“Hiking parking charges at the exact moment when access is about to be restricted makes no sense. It sends the wrong signal to residents and businesses,” he said. “Waverley should reverse this decision before the works cause serious disruption.”

He urged the council to use its discretionary powers to temporarily reduce business rates for firms most affected by the construction.

“Small businesses are already under pressure from rising costs, new taxes and tighter margins. A short-term reduction in business rates would provide a crucial safety net while the works are underway,” he added.

In a letter to Waverley leader Cllr Paul Follows and chief executive Pedro Wrobel, the MP expressed “growing concern” about the increase in parking charges, while also calling for a reduction in business rates.

“This is a time when Waverley Borough Council must step up,” writes Mr Stafford. “As the authority responsible for parking charges and business rates, you are in a position to act decisively and support businesses through what will be an extremely challenging period.”

Mr Stafford has also written to the Government’s Valuation Office Agency (VOA), requesting consideration of an area-based reduction in rateable values for streets most affected by the disruption. He said that smaller traders should not be forced to pursue time-consuming appeals during an already challenging period.

“The effects of this disruption will be felt across the town, and smaller traders simply don’t have the time or capacity to pursue lengthy appeals. A blanket or street-level adjustment could ensure help reaches the right places quickly and fairly,” he said.

In addition, Mr Stafford has requested an urgent meeting with Surrey County Council officers to explore possible adjustments to the scheme’s delivery that might help minimise the impact on local trade.

Cllr Jane Austin, leader of the opposition and Conservative group on Waverley Borough Council, backed the MP’s call for action, criticising the recent rise in parking charges.

“Waverley should be taking action now to cut parking charges, which have risen by nearly 30% over the past two years for most users,” she said. “Local traders are already under pressure, and higher costs will only make things worse.

“It’s deeply disappointing that Farnham Residents and the Liberal Democrats voted through these increases in March, knowing full well the disruption the FIP would bring. I urge Farnham councillors to put party politics aside, stand up for their town, and back urgent support for local businesses and residents.”

Councillor Liz Townsend, Waverley Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economic Development, said: “We fully recognise the impact that the town centre improvement works are having on some businesses and residents, and we’re working hard with Surrey County Council as the project lead, and other partners including Farnham Town Council, Farnham BID, and local traders, to minimise disruption wherever possible.

“This work has been planned for some years now and is part of a once-in-a-generation investment in Farnham’s future. It aims to bring long-term improvements to traffic flow, air quality, accessibility, and safety, making Farnham an even more attractive and vibrant place to live, visit and do business. Farnham is a fantastic town, known for its strong community, independent shops, welcoming atmosphere and creative experiences, and we want to encourage more people to support it through this period of transformation.

“While we share concerns about the challenges some businesses are facing, it’s important to be clear that Waverley Borough Council only retains around 6 percent of business rates, which is required to manage collection and administration.

“The rates are set by the Government’s Valuation Office Agency, not the council, but we do help local businesses by actively supporting them to apply for available reliefs, including small business rate relief, retail discounts and hardship support. If businesses need more advice on this, we encourage them to get in touch.”

Councillor Tony Fairclough, Waverley Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Regulatory Services added: “The modest parking charge adjustments introduced earlier this year were part of a borough-wide review to help safeguard vital local services.

“This includes community support, leisure centres, grants to voluntary groups, affordable housing, and of course maintaining and managing our car parks. Even with the increases, charges remain competitive with other Surrey towns, and Farnham’s car parks continue to see strong usage, with around 117,000 visits each month.

“We thank the community for continuing to support our car parks and contributing to a vibrant town centre. Now more than ever, we encourage people to talk up Farnham, visit local shops and cafes, and help our businesses thrive, not dissuade others through negativity.

“This is a project with broad local support and long-term benefits. We urge everyone, including political representatives, to work constructively with us to support the town through this period of change.”