Once again proposals to develop the former Fire Research Station site have appeared; in essence, they are substantially the same as those mooted last February, with minor amendments.

I have a feeling of inevitability about this outcome, not just from the sameness of the proposals, but also the prolonged silence of the previously lobbying groups.

Is any further discussion necessary, or has it already gone through, 'on the nod'?

I think that the events will prove that to be the case.

Whatever the outcome, my only concern is about any changes to traffic flow in Melrose Avenue, as this will affect the relative peace and quiet, and also the value of property, in the street.

As long as I can remember it (back to the 1940s), the Fire Research Station's address and entrance were given as Station Road, Borehamwood, apart from a brief period during the Insurers Research Association's occupation when they concocted an underhand deal with Hertsmere Council to redesignate the staff entrance in Melrose Avenue to be known as the main entrance.

By underhand, I mean the deal went through without any resident being consulted or even informed.

So let the council planners base their plans on the basis that Station Road will provide all access and egress to their housing project.

In the past the council has been against using Station Road as it would create a problem with the traffic in Shenley Road. If they care to open their eyes they will see thatthey already have a dreadful problem with traffic in Shenley Road, and the very act of dumping another possible 500 motor cars in the middle of town can only exacerbate the problem, whichever route the cars take.

So, let the council sort out the whole of the Shenley Road traffic shambles before they consider adding to it.

TS Brown,

Melrose Avenue,

Borehamwood.

October 18, 2001 10:40