Officials have finally agreed to build railings along a treacherous Fulham riverside wall after years of protests from locals.

The 10-inch high flood defence barrier, off Holyport Road in Fulham, has been the scene of several incidents where residents have fallen over the parapet, plummeting around 12 feet  to the riverbank.

One woman, 92 year-old Joyce Howitt, died after falling off her mobility scooter in August 2006.

Now the barrier will finally be put up after the Port of London Authority and the Environment Agency gave the idea the thumbs up.

Hammersmith & Fulham Council will build the railings for Rosebank Wharf Limited, which owns both the wall and Rosebank flats directly opposite, splitting the cost of the barrier with Rosebank.

Deputy council leader and cabinet member for environment Councillor Nicholas Botterill said: "Residents will now be able to stroll along the path and enjoy the river walk without worrying about their safety. As a council, we have been pushing for a solution to this hazardous stretch of river wall for some time and are thrilled that Rosebank are on board with us."

The council is consulting householders, residents' associations and businesses about the proposals and the railings are expected to be fitted in mid-December.