BROMSGROVE MP Julie Kirkbride has stepped into a row over proposed traffic calming measures in Stoney Hill after residents took the 'hump.'

Last week the Advertiser/Messenger revealed residents had launched a campaign urging traffic bosses to rethink a scheme to instal 27 speed humps and a 20mph limit in Fordhouse Road, East Road, North Road, West Road and College Road.

This week the Tory MP, who met with campaigners before Christmas, revealed she had written to Worcestershire Highways Partnership in Bromsgrove manager Jon Fraser suggesting the possibility of gateways - when the road is narrowed using a variety of methods - rather than speed humps.

She said gateways slowed down traffic because only one car could pass through at a time.

Miss Kirkbride added: "In these areas it might be more attractive but you do lose parking.

"Gates slow traffic down without the nuisance of humps."

In May 2001, the partnership announced a plan to put speed humps in Fordhouse Road, along with ones in the surrounding streets to deter drivers from attempting to avoid the speed calming measures.

Householders were asked to submit their views and 12 objected.

Residents, led by Graham Reddie, of East Road, are trying to stop the scheme after his own survey revealed most people did not want the humps, saying they are unnecessary.

Bromsgrove district councillor, Dennis Norton (Con, Norton), said the authority had carried out two fair and unbiased surveys before receiving the "additional information" from Mr Reddie.

He added: "But to ensure residents are happy we will re-consult."