'Reclaim our roads' was the cry of more than 30 residents backing a Liberal Democrats campaign for road reforms on Saturday.

Restoration of street sweeping after bin collections, 20 mph speed limits on Merton roads and a 7.5 ton weight restriction on lorries are among demands put to Merton Council.

The requests are part of a five-point campaign launched by Shas Sheehan, spokeswoman for Wimbledon Lib Dems, in the run-up to the general election next year.

She said: "Constant litter and detritus on our streets cause blocked gullies and drains. This leads to the network of pipes and sewers less able to cope with the increasing volume of water we are experiencing."

Damage from water-logged drains is causing potholes and vibrating pipes and sewers, she said.

Launched outside Morden Civic Centre, the campaign is also calling on the council to publish a schedule of works to unblock and maintain gullies and drains.

Councillor Mary-Jane Jeanes, Merton's only Lib Dem councillor, put forward a motion at a council meeting in July for the restoration of street cleaning after bin collections. But it was not backed by a single other councillor.

Wimbledon Times:

'Clean our roads': Shas Sheehan leads the demonstration outside Morden Civic Centre 

Campaigners also want the council to set up a working group to examine the cause and effect of urban flooding and excessive road vibration in Merton - in partnership with Thames Water and the Environment Agency.

A petition is due to go live later today on roarmerton.org.uk.

Councillor Oonagh Moulton, leader of Merton Conservatives, said: "It is a matter of public record that Conservatives have long campaigned for both cleaner streets and more 20mph zones.

"That Lib Dems are jumping on this band wagon six months before the general election shows how devoid they are of original ideas.

"These issues are ones that we addressed both in our 2014 manifesto and in recent motions, questions and budget amendments at council.”

Councillor Judy Saunders, Merton Council's cabinet member for environmental cleanliness and parking, said: “As well as the council spending over £5m every year keeping our streets clean, our crews are out around the clock sweeping up over 100 tonnes of leaves during the autumn months, making sure that the roads are kept clear.

"We also encourage people to avoid sweeping leaves from their gardens, drives or pavements into the road, as this may block the gullies and could cause flooding.

"If residents see a build-up of leaves, they can call the team on 020 8274 4902. ”

Are you concerned about road conditions in Merton? Comment below, or email louisa.clarence@london.newsquest.co.uk.