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Tonbridge and Malling MP Tom Tugendhat backs calls for action to tackle speeding drivers in West Malling High Street

More than 200 people have signed an online petition calling for tougher measures to curb speeding drivers in a town centre.

Started by a concerned resident of the High Street in West Malling, the grassroots campaign suggests speed cameras or speed ramps as possible ways to stop motorists breaking the 20mph limit on the road.

Police and ambulance crews at the scene of a hit-and-run accident in West Malling in March
Police and ambulance crews at the scene of a hit-and-run accident in West Malling in March

The lobbying of the parish council and local MP Tom Tugendhat follows a hit-and-run incident in March which saw three women mown down in the High Street.

Abie Ianson, of Lunsford Lane, Larkfield was subsequently arrested and charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

The petition was started by Numrata Norman, who lives on the High Street with husband Glenn and their three-year-old son.

"During lockdown we have noticed the speed is shocking," the 43-year-old business owner said. "It's just so dangerous.

"I don't understand why people would drive so fast on what is generally a busy high street, it's just horrible. I don't feel that safe.

Speeding drivers are causing concerns in West Malling High Street. Picture: Chris Davey
Speeding drivers are causing concerns in West Malling High Street. Picture: Chris Davey

"I think we need more speed limit signs around the village. Something more needs to happen."

Tonbridge and Malling MP Tom Tugendhat says he is aware of the issue of speeding in the village and will be pressing Kent County Council for the introduction of further speed reduction measures.

He said: "I have long campaigned for safer roads in West Malling, and it is a matter that its local councillors should have resolved long ago.

"With more pedestrians using the narrow pavements on the High Street the risk of accidents remains high, and action needs to be taken to address this.

"With the High Street re-opening next week, I am very pleased that Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council has employed street wardens to manage this."

The petition can be viewed and signed here.

Read more: All the latest news from Malling

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