A CONTROVERSIAL experimental parking zone has divided a community with some praising the scheme while others claim their roads have been turned into car parks.


Dozens of residents attended a heated council meeting last night (July 23) to discuss the restrictions, which were introduced in four Wanstead roads in April.


Those living in Spratt Hall Road said the parking scheme was working well and easing congestion.


Phil Comley, has lived in the road for 12 years said: "I have been able to park there for the first time since I moved there.


"We need to park our cars outside our houses when they are not in use.


"Reviewing restrictions in any area will only bring back commuters."


Paul Hancock, of Addison Road, also said the measures were having the desired effect in his road.


"This CPZ is for the residents of west Wanstead (and not commuters)," he added.


"Residents can now park near their homes."


But people living in neighbouring roads say commuters now park outside their homes.


Shirley Sawyer of Wanstead Place said: "Our road has become a carpark. I cannot move my car from day to day.


"We need a space in Wanstead Place as my husband is unable to walk far."

And Stavros Nicola, owner of the Bungalow Cafe believes the scheme is damaging his business as customers are unable to park near his cafe in Spratt Hall Road.


"My takings are down by 15 per cent. My customers have asked me to let you know my views," he said.


He then handed a petition signed by 559 people protesting about the impact of the restrictions.


Mr Nicola has spent £3,500 building three parking spaces for his customers, since April.


However, some residents suggested recent wet weather and the general economic downturn could be to blame for the drop in business.


Councillors agreed not to suspend the scheme before the 12 month trial is up.


Cllr Michelle Dunn said: "We listened to the residents and I think the scheme is working. It is just there are some issues."


Cllr Alex Wilson agreed.


He said: "I believe it was the right thing to do. Residents came to us and wanted us to do something about it."


Councillors agreed to consult residents in west Wanstead again on introducing further restrictions in Wanstead Place, converting residents' bays in Spratt Hall Road and offering business permits in the Grove Road car park.


They agreed to bring the results of the consultation to the next area 1 committee meeting in October. 

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