Businesses along two roads are concerned their livelihoods will be severely affected by the council’s plan to impose parking restrictions.
A map of the plans shows 10 pay and display parking bays will be subject to a three-hour maximum stay and no return within two hours on Petersfield Avenue in Harold Hill.
Maria Hayllar, 43, who runs Heavenly Beauty and Tanning Salon and Heavenly Ladies Gym, said the plans are not necessary and will have a negative effect on businesses.
“There are 22 shops and 22 flats, the council is proposing 10 parking spots for clients, shops and flats,” she said.
“The council say they are trying to fix a problem but there is no problem.”
Cllr Robert Benham, cabinet member for the environment, said the restrictions are to stop buses being forced into unsafe manoeuvres.
Currently, cars can park on the side of the road close to traffic islands, which makes it difficult for them to pass through.
Mark Freeman, TFL’s regional operations managers said: “Due to the temporary removal of road markings, there have been issues with route 498 buses accessing stops along the avenue.”
Cllr Benham added: “This can result in buses having to cross into the other lane, facing oncoming traffic.
“This is clearly dangerous for both road users and pedestrians,” he said.
Speaking on Facebook, Nicky Hamliton said: “I’ve been on the bus when someone has parked by the bollards so no-one can get through and the bus was stuck there for about half hour.
“I do think something has to be done but charging isn’t the answer.”
Sally Pafnouti, 49, who runs The Barber Shop in Whitchurch Road, Harold Hill is confused why the plans include the neighbouring road.
“We have no congestion and no problems with parking.
“There is a clear route for buses and no reason to actually put the restrictions in.”
For eight years, the business woman has not put up prices to stay in competition with other hair salons.
She now worries that customers will avoid the area altogether if they have to pay for parking.
“If the council spoke to us about it and really explained their reasons, you might probably understand.
“But they don’t talk to us.”
Opposing the plans, Cllr Lawrence Webb (Ukip, Gooshays) said the plans will impact the shops.
He said: “Each time these things are introduced, it makes it much harder for smaller businesses to survive.
“People will just go to Tesco.”
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