People living near Eling Wharf slam 'unbearable' HGV traffic

An online petition says an ever-increasing number of lorries are rumbling along Totton High Street - the main route taken by vehicles going to and from Eling Wharf.

Critics claim that HGVs should be made to use an access off the neighbouring A35 Totton Bypass.

People living near Eling Wharf are calling for lorries to be banned from using Totton High Street to reach the site.

The petition says: "Residents are no longer able to ventilate their homes due to the noise and pollution. Commuters are concerned they'll be hit by a lorry as it mounts the pavement and local businesses are advising that traffic congestion has had an impact on trade.

"Traffic has increased to such a volume it has become a safety concern."

The petition says a Traffic Regulation Order banning HGVs from using the High Street would cut pollution, noise and the risk of accidents.

More than 120 people have already signed the petition.

One resident described the traffic as "unbearable". Another complained about fumes from forklift trucks and activity on the site that had left her garden covered in dust.

People living near Eling Wharf are calling for lorries to be banned from using Totton High Street to reach the site. (Image: Newsquest.)

But Totton county councillor David Harrison said: "Eling Wharf has a long established planning permission for things like storage of containers.

"A lot of people have suggested the access off the A35 be used, as it sometimes is on a temporary basis when the High Street entrance has to be closed.

"The problem is that lorries have to slow down to negotiate this turn. This creates a hazard on a 50mph stretch of road, especially so because the lorries have to drive across a cycle route and could potentially wipe somebody out."

Associated British Ports, which owns the site, said it would continue to work with residents and its tenants to create an environment "that works for everyone".

It added: "Since taking over the site in 2018 we have made a number of improvements, including resurfacing roads to remove potholes and reduce noise, installing acoustic fencing and removing more than 1,200 litres of contaminated liquid linked to the site’s former use."

ABP said it recognised residents' concerns, adding: "We will work closely with our tenants to monitor vehicle movements."

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