Residents in Blackheath, south London, have accused Lewisham Council of installing speed bumps that exceed recommended height limits and damage vehicles. Of 15 bumps, 12 reportedly surpass the council's 80mm standard, with five measuring between 100mm and 105mm, causing cars to scrape their undercarriages.
Andrew Thorp, a 59-year-old architect, conducted an engineering survey after his Mercedes C-Class estate was damaged multiple times. He said: 'We are paying for the bumps with our council tax, and then paying for the damage to our cars. It's as if they are socialist speed bumps.' Ferrari owner Steve Emmott, 67, said he must slow to 3-5 mph to avoid damage.
Andrew Holmes, 82, a retired civil engineer, raised concerns about noise from heavy vehicles striking the bumps, which he said can 'shake the house'. Lewisham Cyclists, affiliated with the London Cycling Campaign, also warned that motorists swerving around the bumps pose a risk to cyclists.
Lewisham Council defended the bumps, introduced months ago to enforce 20mph limits. A spokesman said all bumps comply with Department for Transport standards after three were adjusted earlier this year. He added: 'All cushions are now within permitted sizes and can be crossed safely at 15-20mph, however driving faster may cause scraping.' The council noted the bumps are near a school and hospital, and are monitoring noise levels.
