Bus Lane whitewash!

7.04.17pm GMT Sun 14th Mar 2004

Labour controlled Bexley Council's so called "review" of the Welling Bus Lane has now taken place.

The only changes to its operation are the removal of the parking meters at the western end of the bus lane, (which have already been suspended), and to consult about removing the large pedestrian island outside the Co-op, to be replaced with a straight across crossing.

Nothing else is to be done. The Council does not accept that it or its agents have intentionally issued Penalty Charge Notices for "clipping" the end of the Bus Lane, despite the deep unhappiness of many residents who believe that it has. They also do not accept that the Bus Lane as presently constituted has had any effect on trade in Welling despite the views of many of the shopkeepers. They have also flatly refused to shorten or amend the existing Bus Lane at any point.

Local Lib Dem councillor Nick O'Hare said: "This clearly shows that Labour controlled Bexley Council has totally ignored the views and concerns of the residents in East Wickham and throughout Welling. This is arrogance beyond belief.

"The local Liberal Democrat team do not accept the conclusions of this "review", which we regard as a whitewash! We will continue to represent your views and assist you when and where we can."