Plans to extend double yellow lines so fire engines can access a road in an emergency are likely to be given the go ahead, despite objections from residents.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service requested them in Harold Road/Thomas Road, Murston, after crews were delayed in reaching three people trapped in an upstairs flat following an arson attack in June.

James Ellis, his two-year-old son Connor and his friend, found their only escape route blocked after a wheelie bin was placed in front of the door and set alight.

Neighbour Wayne Raines ended up rescuing them using a ladder from his back garden after two engines called to the blaze in Cowper Road were stuck in nearby roads.

They were unable to reach the property due to cars parked on both sides of the narrow streets and on the corner of junctions.

At the same time Ian Maggs, who lives in the bottom flat, was trying to extinguish the flames using buckets of water.

Mr Ellis described the men as heroes.

During a recent on site meeting, an appliance was used by town firefighters to highlight to officers from Kent County Council’s highways department, the areas where parked vehicles are causing issues.

Swale council’s cleansing team have also reported ‘great difficulties’ with their refuse freighters accessing the estate.

One written objection and a petition consisting of signatures from residents of eight nearby properties has been received.

But members of the Swale Joint Transportation Board are requested to note the objections and comments received and proceed with the proposed restrictions when they meet at Swale House in East Street, Sitttingbourne, on Monday.

The report says: “The proposed restrictions have been kept to a minimum to limit the impact on parking capacity for residents and the Highway Code states that vehicles should not park within 10 metres of a junction.

“Concern was expressed that residents would not be able to park close enough to their properties to unload shopping but as with all yellow lines it is permitted to stop on the restrictions for the purpose of unloading or lading a vehicle.”