A NEW speed hump has led to increased traffic noise and vibration which is damaging residents' homes, it has been claimed.

A speed table (a flat hump covering a whole junction) was installed at the junction of Church Hill and Howard Road, in Walthamstow, as part of the new 20mph zone in the area.

But residents believe the measure has not reduced speed and has caused more disruption and noise.

Leonida Krushelnycky, a Church Hill resident and BBC journalist said: “Even before the tarmac had cooled on the new speed table the lives of the residents in this part of Church Hill changed dramatically, as vehicles began using it in the manner of skateboarders.

“The speed table is a ramp that vehicles, including buses, vans, rubbish dumper trucks and motorcycles, accelerate to then fly over.

“As these vehicles land on flat ground the noise and vibration is felt in houses along Church Hill and even in several roads leading off it.”

Several residents showed the Guardian cracks in their walls and ceilings which they say has been caused by the extra vibrations.

A public consultation found that six in ten residents were in favour of the 20mph zone, with nearly a third against.

Some Church Hill residents are still angry about a decision taken last summer to allow double decker 212 buses to use the road.

A Waltham Forest Council spokesman said: "The speed table was constructed as part of the Church Hill 20mph zone.

"Church Hill is part of a bus route and the traffic calming measure we put in place were designed to meet the guidelines for traffic calming on bus routes.

"Measures must slow traffic without causing discomfort to passengers.

"The scheme is being monitored closely and remedial works are carried out where problems are identified.

"The scheme has been positively welcomed by the Waltham Forest Cycling Campaign who feel the traffic calming has changed driver behaviour in the area, making drivers more courteous and aware of other road users."