A NEW scheme to remove abandoned vehicles from the roads of Haringey was launched this week.

The project aims to identify vehicles that have either been dumped or abandoned on a daily basis and earmark them for destruction within three working days.

The pilot scheme will concentrate on dealing with vehicles in Tottenham but the scheme could be extended to the rest of the borough if it proves successful.

An inspector will be employed to check out reports of vehicles that have been left on the roads or pavements and will instigate their removal.

Scheme organisers hope that they will also be able to raise public awareness of safety issues associated with abandoned vehicles. This will involve a publicity campaign run through local shops, community centres, libraries and leisure centres, which will inform residents of how and where they can report dumped vehicles.

The project will cover the Northumberland Park, Tottenham Hale, Tottenham Green and Seven Sisters area.

Cllr Ray Dodds, lead member for the environment, said: "This project will lead to a dramatic reduction in the objectionable nuisance factor of abandoned vehicles on the streets and estates.

"It should also noticeably improve street safety and cleanliness."

Whilst east Tottenham is one of the worst areas of the borough for dumped cars, the problem is borough-wide. Pictured is a car spotted on Monday in White Hart Lane, which blocked the pavement for pedestrians.

On Wednesday, a spokesman for Haringey Council said: "The car in White Hart Lane was reported by a contractor on Tuesday. It should be removed today Wednesday."

The hotline to report abandoned vehicles in east Tottenham is 8489 2134.

July 12, 2002 10:01