Cllr Filly Maravala with fed up local residents

Despite efforts to tackle the problem of prostitution in Redbridge, the situation has not improved according to concerned residents and councillors.

Prostitution in the Loxford area was the focus at Redbridge Town Hall, High Road, Ilford yesterday evening when four public speakers and Cllr Filly Maravala, a Labour councillor for Loxford ward, addressed the cabinet on the matter.

One member of the public said: “I have lived in Ilford Lane for 35 years and this problem has made my life intolerable. We need the financial resources from the Mayor of London and the secretary of state to take notice and to help Cllr Maravala because he can’t do it on his own.”

Another member of the public, who’s 16-year-old daughter has been approached by men in the past, said: “I live in absolute fear of prostitution and it is getting worse. “When I walk home I will no doubt see this happening with men making no attempt to hide. More should be done to name and shame.”

A member of the public also added: “There is talk of rescuing the girls but the residents are the victims too.”

Cllr Filly Maravala said: “It is blatantly obvious that despite all the arrests of prostitutes and kerb-crawlers, this has not had any impact.

“Before this evil engulfs more wards in Redbridge I would urge you to please put all your efforts into doing something about this. I get at least five e-mails a day from concerned residents.”

The council has been negotiating with local drug agencies, placed re-locatable CCTV in the area, installed brighter street lighting and cut back the vegetation.

Cllr Shoaib Patel, the cabinet member for community safety, planning and enforcement, said: “I ensure you the council will continue their efforts and work with the police and partners.”

Residents who are concerned about the problem are invited to attend a focus group at Ilford Methodist Church, Ilford Lane, Ilford on June 26 between 7-10pm.