Ealing (Parliament Politics Magazine) – An Ealing Lib Dem councillor spearheaded an enforcement drive in Hanger Hill, removing abandoned cars after years of complaints from locals.
The ward’s councillor, Jonathan Oxley, collaborated with police and council personnel to address a persistent issue he described: rogue garages leaving damaged and illegal automobiles on residential roads, sidewalks, and loading bays.
Locals claimed that the practice had made parking challenging, impeded delivery, and put drivers and pedestrians in danger.
According to Councillor Oxley, he discovered a wheel clamp that had been cut off and abandoned parking fines when he visited the location earlier this year.
Councillor Oxley stated that Ealing Council records showed that only two of the 27 parking charges issued in the area in January 2025 were paid.
11 vehicles, including two Jaguars, three Land Rovers, and two Range Rovers, were dragged away last week (5 September 2025) as a result of a well-coordinated effort.
A number of the vehicles had overdue fines associated with them; one Range Rover had ten unpaid tickets. Additionally, 15 abused license plates were found and reported to the DVLA.
Speaking about the action taken, Councillor Oxley, said:
“Liberal Democrats believe illegal parking is a scourge, which I’m delighted is being addressed by the council at my instigation. Today’s enforcement operation to remove 11 illegally parked cars in Hanger Hill is just the start – much more needs to be done across the borough.”
He added: “This action is testimony to what can be done with Liberal Democrats councillors at the helm and in concert with the local community, the police, and dedicated and professional council officers.”
In order to reduce traffic, the council is also considering pavement and road marking repairs and consulting on new truck parking spaces.
What impact did the removal of abandoned cars have on the Hanger Hill community?
The clearance of obstructive vehicles has reduced congestion and increased visibility in the streets, making roads safer for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. The enforcement checks also made it easier for customers and suppliers to park and access the street. This has had a flow-on benefit for businesses or shops nearby who were previously constrained by blocked or reduced spaces.
Clearing derelict vehicles has also helped to alleviate issues of vandalism, illegal dumping, and environmental effects of long term abandoned cars, making a cleaner, and more appealing neighbourhood environment.
Residents expressed relief and satisfaction that council enforcement action is taking place in response to many years of complaints, showing that local issues are being considered and addressed.