Residents in one of London's most exclusive neighbourhoods are taking legal action after being "imprisoned" by barriers outside their homes to prevent terrorist attacks.
Londoners on Portobello Road in Notting Hill — home to one of the city’s most famous markets — say they have been “trapped” in their homes by the new anti-terror measures.
Last month, the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea installed “H-stop” barriers and concrete bollards along the street over fears of vehicles being driven into pedestrians following advice from the Metropolitan Police.
But the restrictions — which also bans all vehicles from the road between 10am and 4pm for either three or seven days a week, depending on the section — have raised concerns among locals that they will not be able to leave.
There are also fears that emergency services, delivery trucks and taxi cabs will be unable to reach them, The Times reported.
With that approach, the terrorists win as well
Patrick Somers, who lives in Portobello Mews, is leading a court challenge by neighbours and traders against the authority’s decision.
He said: "We absolutely support antiterror measures. Who wouldn't? But you've got to balance it, because if you talk to the police or a risk consultant, they'll say, 'Don't go out, lock yourselves in and you'll be fine'.
“But most people can't live that way — and with that approach, the terrorists win as well."
Law firm Broadfield, which represents the residents, claims the new barriers were introduced without formal consultation.
Judy Fox, an antique dealer who has been trading in Notting Hill for more than half a century, told the Daily Telegraph: "The council has imprisoned us here.
"Customers cannot get in to collect large antiques. People just use (the blocks) to sit on and take photos."
The council has liaised with emergency services to ensure their vehicles could get through after paramedics were allegedly forced to park beyond the barriers and carry their kit in to attend to a child with breathing difficulties.
New blue badge bays and drop-off areas on side streets have also been created — and blue badge holders living in the closed sections were able to enter and leave.
A council spokesman said: "We believe the current measures strike a reasonable balance between protecting the public and supporting the needs of individuals.
"The temporary anti-terrorism traffic regulation order on Portobello Road was introduced to protect residents, traders and visitors from the potential threat of vehicle attacks during busy trading periods, following advice from counterterrorism police. We continue to speak with residents and businesses."
