A CONSULTATION on a controversial parking scheme will start next month – a month after it was meant to be launched.

Redbridge Council planned to introduce pay and display parking in Wanstead High Street and permit parking in most residential roads in February.

The scheme was due to be rolled out under an Experimental Traffic order, which did not require the council to consult the public.

But after fierce opposition from residents, the scheme was put on hold and a “gold-standard consultation” promised by council leader Jas Athwal in January.

It has today (February 24) been revealed the consultation will launch in March, but the exact dates are still unknown.

The council has promised a paper consultation form will be sent to every resident, business, school, and nursery in the affected area, and an online consultation and shopper survey will also be made available.

Cllr Athwal said: “I’m very pleased with the progress we are making and once again I’m proud that we are able to demonstrate that we are a Council that listens to its residents.

“We know expectations are high for this work and we are in the process of making sure that the details are right before we present it to the public.”

“Parking in Wanstead is a real problem, and we want to find a solution that is right for the area, that deals with the present and future pressures on parking spaces but also takes into account the needs of businesses, residents and shoppers.

“It is a very difficult balancing act, we have to take into account many factors and try and find the best way forward.

“We know that means we can’t please everybody but we have to do what we think is best for the whole area.

“We’re looking forward to sharing the consultation with everyone when it is ready.”

The council added the exact date the forms will start to be rolled out will “follow in due course”.