Residents living on Copers Cope Road in Beckenham are expressing their concerns over the traffic issues stemming from Crystal Palace FC’s academy grounds. The residents claim that the street is often congested, and they fear for the safety of children due to speeding cars.
Lesley Mansfield, a 76-year-old retired doctor who has lived on the road for 36 years, along with her husband Nigel Squibb, highlighted the challenges they face due to limited parking access caused by the academy. Mansfield mentioned instances where she couldn’t leave her own driveway due to cars parked haphazardly.
While Bromley council attempted to address the situation by implementing double yellow lines on the road, residents like Mr. Squibb have reported cars speeding up to 70 miles per hour. The lack of speed bumps on the road adds to the chaotic traffic conditions, according to Michael Anderson, another local resident.
Residents have documented the issues on the website of their residents’ association, North Copers Cope Residents Action Group, showcasing overturned cars, vehicles entering and exiting the academy site at night, and long queues of traffic. Despite these concerns, residents feel that their grievances have not been addressed by the council or the football club.
Crystal Palace FC’s chairman, Steve Parish, defended the club’s efforts to maintain a positive relationship with the community. He highlighted the significant investments made in improving the academy facilities for the benefit of local boys and girls. A spokesperson for the club emphasized their commitment to addressing traffic and parking issues promptly and engaging with residents through a WhatsApp group.
While the club asserts that its investments have enhanced the aesthetics and security of the site, residents like Ms. Mansfield and Mr. Anderson continue to raise safety concerns regarding the traffic situation on Copers Cope Road. Despite Crystal Palace FC’s efforts to communicate and respond to residents’ worries, the overarching issue of traffic safety remains unresolved.
As the community grapples with the ongoing challenges posed by the academy’s operations, it is evident that a collaborative effort involving both the football club and local authorities is needed to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the area. The concerns raised by residents underscore the importance of effective communication and proactive measures to address traffic issues in a timely manner.
