Local resident calls on Enfield Council to tackle the problem in Burleigh Way, reports Grace Howarth, Local Democracy Reporter

An Enfield Town resident has called on the council to tackle the problem of motorcyclists using the pavement on a side street after plans for solutions were dropped.

Liz Mascarenhas said moped riders “frequently” used the pavement on Burleigh Way as a “through road” and “thoroughfare”. The street, used as a shortcut for pedestrians, connects to Market Square where there are bollards which block cars and larger vehicles.

Liz said: “Despite the efforts of parking enforcement, motorcycles regularly mount the pavement and park where they should not, with little deterrent beyond occasional fines for parking on double yellow lines, but not for taking over the actual pavement.”

Enfield Council is soon set to begin the second phase of a major town centre revamp called the ‘Enfield Town Liveable Neighbourhood’ project, and had previously considered installing a designated motorcycle parking bay in the problem area.

However, the council said this was met with “significant opposition” during a previous public engagement process and as a result it was decided this element of the scheme would not go ahead.

Liz, who lives in Burleigh Way, said the bikes created “daily hazards for children, families, and residents, particularly vulnerable people” and was concerned the issue would continue “unaddressed”.

She said solutions could include installing physical barriers such as planters to prevent motorcycles accessing the pavement, adding signage for designated motorcycle parking, and putting Burleigh Way back into the council revamp plans for Enfield Town.

In response a council spokesperson said this section of the town centre was “not part of the public highway” and therefore it limited the physical changes the council could implement.

The council acknowledged enforcement alone was not sufficient but a barrier to prevent access would “restrict access for pedestrians”. The spokesperson said: “The council is aware of the ongoing issue of mopeds and motorbikes parking on the pavement along Burleigh Way in Enfield Town.

“We initially proposed dedicated motorcycle parking in this area as part of phase one of the Enfield Town Liveable Neighbourhood project. However, this element of the scheme did not go ahead due to objections received during the statutory consultation process.

“We are concerned that motorcycles parking on the footway are blocking space for pedestrians and people with mobility needs. The safety of residents and visitors is our priority, and such behaviour is unacceptable. Our enforcement officers will continue to monitor the area and will take action against those parking illegally. We want all our town centres to be welcoming and accessible.

“Meanwhile, we are actively exploring other solutions for this specific section of the town centre although we are limited in terms of what physical measures we can put in place. As part of the wider Liveable Neighbourhoods project, we remain committed to making Enfield Town safer and easier to reach for everyone – whether walking, wheeling, cycling or using public transport.”

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