HOUSEHOLDS living along a busy main road say lives are being put at risk because the council has failed to stop cars parking on the pavement.

Residents in the Hermon Hill area of South Woodford have been campaigning for over a year for the authority to clamp down on kerb parkers, which they say are increasing the risk of accidents by blocking the view of motorists and also obstructing the footpath for pedestrians.

Despite promises from the council, campaigners say the authority has been slow to act and have renewed calls for action.

Disabled pensioner, Shirley Faruki, of Pultney Road, said she was told by council officers that the vehicles were “not an obstruction” when she complained to the Highways Department, even though the cars meant she was unable to travel along the pavement in her mobility scooter.

She added: “We’re not talking about a NIMBY issue, we’re talking about a safety issue where someone could get seriously hurt unless something is done.”

Woodford councillor Felicity Banks said the wardens needed “a much more pro-active approach” to enforcement in the area.

Fellow resident Chris Wynne said: “It seems to us there is a risk of a very serious accident.

“We’ve been very patient but we would hope some decision could be made and the councillors could look at this problem again.”

A council spokeswoman said: "We take all residents concerns seriously.

"We will monitior the enforcement activity in this area and will liaise with the enforcement contractor, however, as previously stated, some parts of Hermon Hill does allow for footway parking.

"A borough-wide review of 24 hour waiting restrictions will be carried out, subject to resource and funding."