A group of concerned residents in West Huntspill say a quiet lane running past their homes is being plagued by a ‘constant stream of noisy traffic’ since the opening of dozens of new allotments nearby.
The West Huntspill Allotment Society has introduced the popular allotments in a field off Cadwells Lane in the village.
But nearby residents, including Mike Hookway and Brian Higgs (pictured) are unhappy about the increased numbers of motorists who are now using the lane to reach the new facilities.
Mike told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “This is a very narrow lane with no pavements and it’s always been very quiet with very little passing traffic.”
“Since the allotments opened, though, we’ve seen a constant stream of traffic throughout the day, including inappropriate vehicles such as diggers, vans and cars towing large trailers.”
“None of us were fully consulted about the allotments before they opened and we’re unhappy that the changes have been forced upon us. We’d like to see another more appropriate access point.”
Mr Higgs added: “We’re very unhappy about the situation and would like the Allotment Society and council to reconsider the scheme.”
He added: “Three vehicles have ended up in the rhyne along this lane during recent years and it can only be time before another accident occurs.”
West Huntspill Councillor Cllr Jane Moreton told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “It took a very long time to find a patch of land for these new allotments. The farmer has been very good in leasing the land to us and while the location may not be 100% ideal because of its access, it was what was offered after a lengthy search.”
“The allotment owners are very aware of the concerns of nearby residents and are trying not to use vehicles that are too disruptive or to use the lane late at night or in the early morning.”
“Residents were consulted and we knocked on doors to let people know but the allotments did not require planning permission.”
She added that the County Council’s Highways department has been approached to see if the lane can be widened and screening is also being planted to try to “avoid causing upset wherever possible.”
