PLANS for an industrial development at Bromley Common, described as "an accident waiting to happen", have been put on hold after a dispute about traffic increases.

The scheme to convert Scrubbs Farm into a 22-unit industrial site was dropped from a planning agenda after residents complained traffic figures were wrong.

A residents' survey indicated 146 more vehicles would use Lower Gravel Road and surrounding streets, while the developers had predicted only 57.

Bromley Common Village residents' association chairman Jane Smith said: "This development is an accident waiting to happen.

"This is a residential area and a survey by one of our members found 146 traffic movements from the site.

"And not all the units are open yet.

"The council will not introduce traffic calming measures unless there are serious accidents or fatalities."

Ward councillor Alexa Michael said: "I have long been calling for an independent traffic survey.

"It is plain there has already been a large increase in traffic.

"And the site isn't even officially working yet.

"This level of traffic is unacceptable in a heavily residential area."

Council planning officer James Amos said: "An independent survey has been carried out by council officers, and the developers were not told when it would be done.

"This is likely to be published in January."

November 27, 2001 10:41