Parking
Bedford Corner and Bath Road area
The Society has been concerned for some time about road safety issues around the two mini roundabouts at the junctions of The Avenue, South Parade and Bath Road caused by parking between the two mini roundabouts and close to the central pedestrian islands in Bath Road. Hounslow Council implemented double yellow lines in those places, which we hope will be effective although residents are reporting continuing problems.
We are also aware that there are insufficient loading and unloading bays near to the businesses in Turnham Green Terrace, and insufficient spaces for taxis and are following up options with the Council to try to improve the situation.
If you have any views on the above, please let us know by email: issues@bedfordpark.org.uk
Ealing Residents’ Visitor Parking
We’re continuing to question Ealing Council’s withdrawal of paper visitor vouchers, which leaves RingGo Pay by Phone as the only option for payment. Our recent members’ survey showed that while residents are generally happy to have access to RingGo as an alternative to the vouchers, the complete withdrawal of vouchers is impractical for many.
In the survey 93% of respondents said that paper vouchers should be provided in addition to RingGo. The main reasons given for this were residents being away/at work when visitors arrive; the difficulty of using the system; RingGo not working properly; no access to the internet/smart phone and problems such as visits by carers. We are now planning the next steps in our challenge. In the meantime, we have established that paper vouchers can still be obtained for anyone who can demonstrate that the RingGo system is unsuitable for their needs because of age or disability:
“The Council continues to offer a paper-based solution to those who can demonstrate the RingGo system is unable to meet their needs. Customers unable to use the RingGo system may contact Parking Services directly by phone: 0208 825 6677, option 6; by email: ParkingServices@ealing.gov.uk or in writing to Ealing Council, Parking Services, PO Box 46264, Ealing, W5 2UN.”
There is no mention of this concession on the council website and local organisations such as Age UK Ealing were also unaware of it until alerted by us. Please feel free to pass this information on to any neighbours you think might find it helpful. We will keep you updated on developments and would welcome any comments from residents who may have concerns.
Hounslow Parking
Following complaints from residents about the introduction of cashless parking for using Pay and Display bays in Hounslow, the Society reviewed the Equalities Impact Report from the Council, which did not appear to be sufficiently detailed about the effects on the vulnerable and elderly. We are now planning to request further details from the Council.
Hounslow new Resident Parking tariffs
The Society responded to the Council’s consultation on proposed charges for electric and diesel cars and household with more than one car suggesting that instead of the tariffs proposed, the Council should follow the TfL guidelines.
Cycle parking
Hounslow Council has introduce double-height bicycle racks at Chiswick Back Common next to the railway bridge. Cyclists should note that each hoop has space for two bikes, not just one.
We would gently remind cyclists that locking bikes to the railings by the Church is damaging the railings and creating an obstacle for pedestrians.