Residents and traders say work to relay 120 metres of gas mains is affecting caf� business and parking.

Belsize Lane, which links Swiss Cottage to Belsize Park, has been closed to eastbound traffic while work is carried out until April 16 and some residents’ parking bays have also been suspended.

Although residents and businesses were forewarned, some have complained about the impact on footfall and parking.

Richard Jackson, manager of Oliver’s Village Caf� in Belsize Lane, said: “The prior notice was great, but it has affected our business quite a bit as no one has wanted to sit outside whilst work has been going on.”

Ros Eisen, of Belsize Park Mews, said alternatives should be made to grant parking on single yellow lines or in pay-and-display berths.

She said: “If you’ve paid �100 to park cars here, and parking is suspended for several weeks, alternatives should be made.”

Jeanette Unsworth, spokeswoman for National Grid, which is carrying out the work, said: “We know our works are causing some disruption as we’ve had some complaints about the impact on parking, but we would thank people for their continuing patience and say that we hope this is short term pain for a long term gain - a safe and reliable gas supply for generations to come”.

A spokeswoman for Camden Council added: “Advance warning was given to residents, and due to limited kerb space in the area the council is unable to provide alternative parking.

“Residents can use their permits to park in any of the streets within the entire Controlled Parking Zone.”