RESIDENTS called on Finchley Church End councillors to make changes to parking at a meeting in East Finchley yesterday.

Councillor Graham Old and Councillor Daniel Thomas were presented with a petition to modify the Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) in Dollis Park at the Dollis Park and District Residents Association.

Around 50 residents have signed the petition asking for the removal of free parking bays and an extension to the parking restriction hours.

The changes refer to roads between Church Crescent, Regent Park road and the northern section of Church Crescent, and between Victoria Avenue and Dollis Park.

One resident said: “It is not uncommon not to be able to park anywhere near the vicinity of one’s home.

“This might be okay for the able bodied but it is a concern for the elderly, mothers with young children or anyone with heavy loads to carry.”

Councillor Thomas said: “This has been a long running issue which was put on hold in 2009 when we had to prioritize restoring the potholes.

“I am more than happy to take this petition forward and to consider making these changes if that’s what residents want.”

Issues on crime and safety were also raised at the meeting by Finchley Church End’s Safer Neighbourhoods Team.

Seargent Alison Preece reminded residents to shut windows, lock doors and keep valuables hidden away.

She added: “We are available to drop round to people’s houses and check how secure they are, if that’s what you want.

“I also want to warn you that there has been a number of reports of people knocking on doors saying they have a relative in hospital and can they have £20 to get a taxi – this is happening far too much for it to be true so please be aware.”

Speaking about current proposals to make cuts to neighbourhood teams, Sgt Preece said: “We could potentially be merged with East Finchley and Garden Suburb which means there will be some reductions to teams.

“I don’t know much about when this will happen but I know I will be keeping my job and I’m thankful for that.”