Conservative Councillors in West Wickham and Kelsey & Eden Park wards are working to secure improved safety measures on South Eden Park and Beckenham Road, which runs from West Wickham to the Chinese Roundabout in Beckenham.

Councillors Nicholas Bennett (West Wickham ward) and Christine Harris (Kelsey & Eden Park ward) met concerned parents and residents recently to listen to concerns. Following the meeting the councillors have asked officers at Bromley Council to produce a report for September’s Environment Policy Development & Scrutiny Committee (PDS).

The two councillors have also made a number of proposals to help address local residents’ concerns, including a controlled crossing near St David's School, speed activated warning signs and enlarging the footway on the east side of the upper part of Beckenham Road.

Councillor Bennett said:

“We have asked that the report looks at how traffic speeds can be reduced and road safety improved. I have also asked the West Wickham Safer Neighbourhood Team to conduct speed gun tests”.

Calls to permanently widen the pavement are being investigated by Councillor Harris to determine the feasibility / legality / funding of such a move. Councillor Harris has also secured trimmings to the hedge along South Eden Park to allow more space on the path. The hedges will also be cut more regularly as part to maintain this, with care being taken for nesting animals during spring.

Councillor Harris added:

“Like the many residents who have written to me about this important issue, I will eagerly await the publication of the officers’ report. Depending on what is proposed, Nicholas, our ward colleagues we can decide what further action is necessary”.