Romford residents oppose 11 speed humps on Heath Drive

Havering Council has put forward plans to install eleven speed humps along Heath Drive in Romford, a proposal that has drawn significant opposition from local residents. Concerns centre on potential increases in noise and pollution, as well as the visual impact on the road's conservation area status, which protects historic 1911 Exhibition Houses.

Peter Rose, a resident of Heath Drive for 45 years, voiced his objections, stating that while he supports a reduction in the speed limit from 30mph to 20mph, the speed humps are "totally out of keeping" with the area. He argued that the humps would disfigure the historic character of the conservation zone, where residents face restrictions on external alterations to their properties. Mr Rose also highlighted that the constant slowing and accelerating of vehicles over humps can generate more pollution and noise.

Read Next in London Travel News3 min read

Havering Council approves lane rental scheme for roadworks

Highway firms will pay daily charges for road closures during peak hours, aiming to reduce disruption.

Questions over traffic data

Further objections were raised regarding the data underpinning the council's proposal. Mr Rose claimed that the traffic research was primarily conducted while Gallows Corner was closed. During this period, he stated, Heath Drive experienced inflated traffic volumes as it was used as a diversionary route, potentially leading to flawed conclusions about normal traffic conditions.

Beyond heritage and environmental concerns, residents also cited potential issues with vibrations affecting older building foundations and the possibility of delayed response times for emergency services. Mr Rose expressed a feeling that the council was attempting to push the proposal through without adequate consideration for local sentiment or the area's protected status.

Related Borough Coverage3 min read

Haringey Council Approves £10m Bus Grant

The funding aims to encourage public transport use and improve road safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

A spokesperson for Havering Council stated that the proposals are intended as a measured response to ongoing resident concerns about vehicle speeds, through-traffic, and the presence of larger vehicles on Heath Drive. The council confirmed that the plans were informed by traffic data collected both before and during the Gallows Corner works, alongside feedback from an earlier consultation. The council added that all responses received during the current statutory consultation period will be carefully considered before a final decision is made.