WORK has started on putting up signs for a controversial parking scheme – days before a public meeting to discuss it.

Redbridge Council has confirmed 800 poles will be needed to build signs for Wanstead’s new parking scheme after some were spotted going up in Overton Drive this week (January 3).

Maya Anaokar posted a picture of council contractors installing the signs opposite her home on social media, which was met by fury from residents.

Conservative Cllr Suzanne Nolan is urging the council to “stop what they’re doing” before her public meeting to discuss the parking scheme next Friday (January 13).

Opposition councillors in Snaresbrook called the meeting after plans to introduce pay and display parking in Wanstead High Street and permits in residential roads emerged in December.

Cllr Nolan said: “It’s ludicrous they’re doing it already.

“We are still trying to establish what residents want.

"It could just send up being a waste of money.

“This is completely pre-emptive, they need to stop what they’re doing until residents have had their say.”

The parking scheme is being rolled out under an experimental traffic order, which means the council does not need to consult before it starts in February.

But in emails seen by the Guardian cabinet member for environment and sustainability Cllr John Howard said he was still “still taking feedback and reading through residents’ concerns and suggestions.

He said: “I was surprised to see signs going up.

“But after making enquiries with the contractor, the current scheme needs around 800 installed so they have started to do it now.

“This is based on the current proposals and a February start date.”

Cllr Nolan said Wanstead “does not need anymore street furniture” because it “has enough already”.

Wanstead Society chairman added that the 800 extra signs could “have a detrimental impact on the public realm”.

Redbridge Council has been contacted for comment.

The meeting when residents can voice their concerns about the scheme will take place next Friday (January 13) at 7pm at Wanstead Scout Hut in Hollybush Hill.