As a resident of Ice House Court and Jute Court, the recent parking permit enforcement decision by the Barking and Dagenham Council is causing a significant disturbance in our lives. Like many of my fellow residents, I'm expecting my first child in November. The new enforcement ruling, being applied in October with only two weeks’ notice, not only blind-sided us but is also adding undue stress to an already strenuous situation. It is insulting that the only solution the council have provided us is to walk 20 minutes to a multi story car park to park our vehicle’s, especially for families with young children. Moreover, the added expense of a season ticket is financially burdensome for everyone, myself included. 

What infuriates us even further is that these developments were supposedly built as car-free however, residents that have been living here since they were built in 2014, have been able to obtain a permit for parking. In 2021 this was revoked and now we cannot apply for a permit. We believe that as Barking and Dagenham is planning to add new flats, they should also provide a reasonable solution to the parking woes faced by existing residents. Last-minute decisions like this do not consider the actual challenges of the people living in this community. 

It has been apparent implementing a  Car-free development on Abbey road will challenge for those who rely on vehicles for mobility, including the elderly, disabled individuals, or families with young children as mentioned previously. Without adequate public transport options or safe pedestrian pathways, these groups may find it difficult to navigate their neighbourhoods effectively, hence why we must put a stop to this movement urgently.

Given these hardships and the impending influx of residents, we firmly request that the Barking and Dagenham Council reconsider their enforcement of the parking permits until a comprehensive and equitable solution can be established. The futures of our families and our community depend on it. Please, sign this petition and contribute your voice to this urgent plea for reason and fairness.