Fears that someone could be badly injured have been sparked as a business estate's parking problems intensify.

In recent years cars have begun to park in Bower Hill estate in increasing numbers.

With permits introduced on more and more roads in Epping, the secluded lane behind the Underground station has become a hot spot for commuters wanting someone to leave their cars.

The result is a highly congested road were vehicles are regular parked on the pavement.

Dave Allen, CEO of ADAllen Pharma, has watched the problem grow since his business move into Bower Hill in 2004.

He said: "It has become like a second car park for the station. It is really quite ridiculous.

"People are just dumping their cars there despite there being double yellow lines in our driveway.

"We have had issues with parking for many years. Cars are blocking the pavement which means pushchairs and wheelchair users have to go in the road.

"One of my colleagues almost witnessed an accident when a lorry came round the corner blind last week.

"I am worried about someone being badly injured."

Epping Forest Guardian:

A spokesperson for North Essex Parking Partnership said the road was private and therefore not subject to traffic regulation that would allow its officers to enforce breaches of parking law, rendering the double yellow lines "advisory".

They added: “The NEPP considers the potential benefits and impacts of many parking or waiting restriction requests from across north Essex, and would be happy to do so for any submitted by residents or businesses in Bower Terrace, who should demonstrate local support including from the local ward councillor.

“Each request is reviewed and scored, looking at key factors including the level of local support, potential benefits and impacts. Schemes are then referred to the Partnership’s Committee to prioritise and agree which will be progressed.”