This letter is in response to a letter from Carolyn Derecki [Danger persists down our street, Letters, December 10].
Rat running is a very common complaint from local residents. Will more 20 mph roads help?
Carolyn Derecki and the residents of Cheney Street think so.
It is not surprising that those that live in Cheney Street should feel aggrieved at the volume and speed of traffic doing the rat running.
What is surprising is that such a well presented case at a petition hearing earlier this year resulted in so little support from the council, even though they were being handed on a plate the opportunity to contribute to their own transport and air quality strategies.
How bad does it have to get? Do we really need loved ones injured or killed to justify a more proactive approach from the responsible authorities to challenging inappropriate use of residential side streets?
Unfortunately Cheney Street is not the only street in Eastcote, and beyond I would suggest, that requires new thinking and a more supportive response from the council if we are to promote and support increased levels of walking and cycling - especially to schools.
If we think congestion is a problem now, wait until the new 1500-plus houses planned are built.
IAN BROOKS,
Eastcote Residents' Association, Kent Gardens,
Eastcote.
