Families living near a narrow junction have won the backing of Iain Duncan Smith in their fight for safety improvements.

The Woodford Green MP met with residents living in High Elms on Friday to listen to their concerns about the junction with Elm Grove and the Square.

People living near the busy intersection say cars are mounting the pavement to squeeze by each other endangering pedestrians.

The junction is on the border of Redbridge and Waltham Forest and residents are pressing both councils to put their heads together and come up with safety improvements.

Mr Duncan Smith said: “ While I stood on the corner for 15 minutes or so and chatted to residents, about 30 cars must have driven round the bend, often getting stuck with one needing to reverse and let the other through.

“The situation is clearly chaotic and I will be writing to both Waltham Forest and Redbridge Councils to urge them to seek a solution whereby the street is made one-way.

“I will also suggest that some bollards are added to the pavement on the corner to stop further damage to the wall.”

Rita O’Sullivan,47, who lives on the corner has had her wall demolished by vehicles trying to get down Elm Grove.

She said: “Mr Duncan Smith told us he had tried to drive down there before and experienced difficulties.

“We are glad he is taking up our case.

“I must say I am quite disappointed in Redbridge Council though. They have not sent anyone to see us whereas Waltham Forest have.”

Neighbour Paul Shelley, 64, added: “I’m pleased we have our MP’s support because we are worried about a serious accident if nothing is done.

“We are still in the dark with Redbridge though.”

A solution to the problem seemed close in 2007 after a consultation by Redbridge council revealed 54 per cent of people in roads near the junction supported the introduction of a one-way system.

Work on the scheme was due to begin in 2008 but it was cancelled after residents in Elm Grove objected.

A spokesman for Redbridge council said: “The London Borough of Redbridge has carried thorough investigations in the past but proposals to reduce the amount of traffic using the area were met with local objections and consequently did not proceed.

“In view of this and the most recent concerns the Council is reviewing what other options are available to try and improve the situation.

“Officers will be arranging to meet with Waltham Forest representatives.”