A PARK-and-ride car park could be built on a field in Swanley, despite being on green belt land.

Half the field next to Goldsel Road could be transformed into a car park with at least 250 spaces for commuters to park and then "ride" by catching trains to central London.

Owner Ray Mullins has applied to Sevenoaks District Council and, following new government guidelines to tackle traffic congestion in towns, the fact the field has green belt status could be irrelevant.

Mr Mullins said: "Park-and-ride sites on the outskirts of towns are one of the recognised ways to go. Congestion and pollution is a big problem and this will help."

"Swanley has a parking problem with commuters parking in the town centre so, when shoppers go to park, they drive around for a long time to find a place, which is frustrating for them. The park-and-ride would free up the town for the shoppers."

The proposed landscaped car-park with low-level lighting has caused a stir in the town. An emergency meeting for residents was held last Thursday and neighbours have been rallied to make their objections to Sevenoaks District Council.

Meanwhile, Swanley mayor Councillor Frank Parker said: "The Labour group takes the view the proposal is nonsensical. People will be driving through the town centre to use it and it would be no advantage to us at all."

Independent Councillor James Halford said: "I agree with anything to get cars and commuter traffic off our streets. Park-and-rides reduce traffic pollution. If it can work in Maidstone, it can work in Swanley."

Sevenoaks District Council has asked Mr Mullins for further information, which he says he can provide once he has seen results from the traffic survey, due in January.

To comment, contact the district council in writing quoting reference SE/01/02341/FUL by December 21.

November 30, 2001 15:23

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