Disabled workers are being put at risk due to a lack of safety measures on a busy road near where they work, it is claimed.

A total of 70 of the 80 people employed by charity Clarity, which has made cleaning products and toiletries for 160 years, are disabled.

But a move to new premises in Jubilee Avenue, next to the Highams Green development in Highams Park, in January, has left many fearing for their safety.

Clarity chief executive Jeremy Robinson said it is time for action as many workers “take their life into their own hands” when crossing a busy main access road to the development.

He added: "The time has come to push for funding.

“The area in question is used as a u-turn and cut-through route.

“Impatient drivers stuck in traffic put their foot down and speed through here.  

"Every day is a risk and we are seeing more HGVs pass through and delivery vehicles."

Waltham Forest council previously agreed to install a pelican crossing, subject to funding, but there are now calls for urgent action.

Hale End and Highams Park councillor, Sheree Rackham, said: "Every time I ask [the council] for the money I'm told, 'we haven't got any funds' - It is not good enough.

John Loughlin, 64, is blind and travels from Highams Park station.

He said: "I try not to cross there as it is too dangerous.

“I listen out for traffic and I have to rely on the good will of the public not to run me over. 

"It's a matter of life and death."

Chingford MP Iain Duncan-Smith met Clarity workers at the site on Friday and has since written to the council's chief executive Martin Esom.

He said: "There is no question about it, this road is dangerous for ordinary people.

“The council needs to recognise there are special circumstances and within a year, the traffic will double.”