»Parents have voiced their concerns about parking problems outside schools as the council launches a survey on the issue.

It is asking parents and residents about their experiences and views on parking outside primary schools in Barking and Dagenham.

Questions in the survey include – are people parking on yellow zig-zag lines outside the school gates and do cars park on pavements where not permitted, endangering pedestrians?

The findings of the online survey will be used to put together an action plan to try to tackle the issues and improve children’s safety.

The council posted a link to the survey on its Facebook site and a number of people commented.

Many said they had experienced problems with people parking on double yellow lines, on pavements and dropped curbs, while a few said they struggled to find parking spots close to their child’s school.

One poster said there should be more traffic wardens and another suggested CCTV to catch those breaking the law.

The authority also plans to hold a school summit early next month where councillors, representatives from schools and police will discuss the issue.

The results of the survey and the summit will help shape a plan of action.

Cllr Jeanne Alexander, council cabinet member for crime, justice and communities, said: “We get dozens of complaints about parking outside schools every term so we know that this is a problem many people care about. It’s made even more serious by the fact children’s safety is at stake.

“If you have a child at an infant, junior or primary school in the borough we want to hear from you.

“We would also love to hear from people who live near schools.”

n The survey is at lbbd.gov.uk. Look for the ‘Get Involved’ box and click on ‘Go to the consultation portal’.