Blocked Access and Safety Concerns: My Ongoing Struggle with Franganos’ Parking Practices

Living in a flat with close neighbours has its challenges, but one issue I never expected to encounter was the daily battle for safe and easy access to my own home. Unfortunately, this has become my reality, thanks to the constant parking blockages caused by Franganos, a nearby restaurant. Not only has this affected my convenience, but it’s raised significant safety concerns for everyone living in the building.

The Issue: Constantly Blocked Access

The main entrance to my flat is accessed through a narrow alleyway, which has become an unofficial extension of Franganos’ parking area. Their staff, park in such a way that access is almost always obstructed. Imagine coming home with bags of groceries and having to weave around or squeeze through parked cars just to get to your door. It’s inconvenient, frustrating, and frankly, exhausting.

More than just an annoyance, this situation is also a safety concern. In the case of an emergency—like a fire—how would any of us get out safely? The narrow alley is our only escape route, and it’s frequently blocked. Not only does this put the residents at risk, but it also makes it difficult for emergency services to reach us in time.

The Legal Side: Ignored Access Rights

When I approached Franganos about this issue, their response was dismissive. They claimed to have recently bought the freehold of a nearby property, which they say includes rights to the alleyway. However, from what I understand, they’re only entitled to provide access, not to turn it into a permanent parking zone that obstructs residents.

I’ve raised the issue with First Port, the property management company, along with photographic evidence of the blockages, but so far, they haven’t resolved the issue. Legally, we as tenants have the right to unobstructed access to our homes, yet this basic right is repeatedly ignored. Without a clear solution from First Port or Franganos, it feels like our concerns are being brushed aside.

Safety and Community Impact

This isn’t just my problem. Every resident in my building is affected by these access issues, whether they’re trying to bring in groceries, push a pram, or simply get home without the hassle of manoeuvring around parked cars.

The issue is even more concerning when you consider safety. What if a fire broke out and we needed to evacuate quickly? What if paramedics needed to access one of the flats? Emergency services could be delayed, all because our access point is being treated as a parking space for Franganos.

Moving Forward: Seeking a Resolution

I’m hopeful that sharing my experience will not only highlight this issue but also bring awareness to the importance of respecting access rights in residential areas. Property management companies like First Port should be enforcing these rights, and businesses like Franganos should understand that staff parking shouldn’t come at the expense of residents’ safety and convenience.

In the meantime, I’ll continue documenting these instances and pushing for a solution. This is about more than just my convenience—it’s about the right to live safely and comfortably in our own homes.

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