Campaigning residents were today protesting at proposals to use a cul-de-sac as a route for construction traffic to the former Shoebury Garrison site.

Six homes in Westgate, which have enjoyed a tranquil setting overlooking Gunners Park, are set to have their peace shattered by a steady stream of lorries accessing construction sites in the development.

During the revamp of the garrison site, which includes up to 400 new and renovated homes, access to the site has previously been via main gates in the High Street.

Resident, Lee Burles, said the road is a mere 12ft wide and totally unsuitable to cope with such traffic.

The part-time firefighter at Shoebury retained fire station fears his peace will be shattered by heavy lorries trundling past his windows throughout the day when he often has to sleep.

A spokeswoman for Gladedale Homes, owners of the garrison site, said: "It was decided to open Westgate in order that construction traffic is taken away from the High Street to separate it from residents' traffic.

"We have agreed to provide six additional parking spaces on our site for residents in Westgate who have to move their cars.

"The traffic will continue for about 18 months and we have made arrangements for the road to be cleaned three times a week. We will also provide a window cleaning service free of charge."

Published Tuesday, February 19, 2002