Trucks cause havoc in Ashley area
Local residents say they have been fighting this issue for almost two years now.
RESIDENTS in Fine Lane have raised their concerns about trucks using their road as a short cut to their destinations. This comes after a truck rolled onto the Spec Systems property, damaged the gate and hit a water meter in Trotter Lane last Wednesday night.
According to witnesses, the driver left his vehicle running and climbed out of it without putting the handbrake on. The vehicle then left the road and smashed into the container and the Spec Systems wall.
One of the residents, Byron Creed, said the truck issue in the Ashley area has escalated. ”We have been fighting this issue for almost two years now. Fine Lane and Mariannhill Road are not built for these trucks and they damage the infrastructure,” said Creed.
There are more than 10 signs in Mariannhill Road and Fine Lane that state that vehicles more than 3.5 tons are not allowed to use those roads. ”This is a residential area and we are suffering because in the middle of the night, we are awaken by the truck horns and exhaust noise.”
Creed said it was only a matter of time before more accidents such as this one happen. “It was so fortunate that it was at night and no one was injured, but there was huge damage to Spec Systems property and lots of water loss, as the truck hit a water meter. There are schools, pre-schools and churches around this area, it is not safe any more because of the huge trucks.”
Ward 18 councillor, Bruce Sutcliffe, said an accident has been waiting to happen due to the fact that, on numerous occasions, vehicles are often left parked in the middle of the road as well as unhitched trailers, with no concern for other motorists.
“They also constantly use Fine Lane to enter and exit the area, a road which has a limit of 3.5 tons, and damage kerbs as well as endangering motorists and residents living there.” Sutcliffe has requested that Metro Police patrol the area and ensure that vehicles obey the by laws, but they cannot be there all the time and he requests that companies in the area ensure that their staff operate within the law.
“This situation will possibly be re-enacted until transport companies in the area become more responsible,” he surmised.
Creed thanked the Ashley Neighbourhood Watch for their quick response last Wednesday as well as residents of Trustee Silkwood complex for their assistance after the accident happened.
