TRANSPORT chiefs were put on the spot by Walthamstow residents who say that double decker buses are ruining their quality of life.

Concerns were raised about the 230 bus route which passes down narrow and hilly Upper Walthamstow streets, including Fyfield Road and Avon Road, at a public meeting on Saturday.

Residents say the double decker buses using the route are too noisy, and cause increased pollution, congestion and damage to parked cars.

They also fear the buses are putting extra pressure on the road surfaces and make the roads hazardous, particularly in icy weather.

Chris Hall of London Buses explained to them that increased demand on the route led to the decision to replace the single decker buses with double deckers.

Residents urged the bus company either to go back to using single deckers, or to alter the route so that a double decker could be used on the busiest sections of the journey.

The transport bosses said they would take the concerns into account when the route was reviewed in Spring 2006, and will look into short-term measures to limit disruption. Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate for Walthamstow, Jane Wright, organised the meeting.

Ms Wright said she would work with Stagecoach, London Buses, and the council to find a solution.