An independent accident prevention charity said this week it was 'seriously concerned' about Conservative proposals to reopen Partingdale Lane in Mill Hill.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has written a report on the narrow road which connects Woodside Park to Mill Hill Village. Residents commissioned the report which cost them at least £1,000.

The report says: "RoSPA is seriously concerned that if the road is reopened, then there is a high probability that there will be an increase in road traffic accidents again returning to Partingdale Lane and a proportion of these are likely to be accidents involving younger road users and equestrians."

The report recommends that a 'non-confrontational' working group is formed comprising various interested parties including residents, police and councillors. Council leader Victor Lyon said: "I would support such a measure, I think it's important to try to get public opinion with you."

The report says that there were four accidents in Partingdale Lane between 1990 and 1996 which caused 'slight' injuries.

Councillor Brian Coleman, the cabinet member for environment, who wants to reopen the road said: "That's a darn sight less than many other roads in the borough. Residents are worried about the value of their houses and that's all they're worried about."

The decision on reopening the lane was postponed at an area planning meeting on Wednesday last week so that safety issues can be considered more fully. The decision is now due on August 29.

June 26, 2002 12:00