PEOPLE who live in Park Street know a railfreight inquiry will mean serious traffic problems, despite the lack of official support or evidence, a villager has told the hearing.

Ian Lariviere said : “We don't need people with 'expert' badges to yell us what the impact would be on our roads.

“Traffic loading is already at a critical level in busy periods.

“There are going to be 3,000 lorries a day, plus the workforce trying to get there and back.

“The roads will virtually grind to a halt at busy times of day.

“It is the strongly held view of all local road users that the issues of highways impact was treated far too lightly by the first inspector and the Secretary of State Hazel Blears.

“The North Orbital Road is one of the busiest roads in Hertfordshire.”

Warning that extra traffic would mean more accidents and air pollution, he concluded: “We are strongly seeking to protect and preserve this area for our children and future generations.”

The inquiry has adjourned for a coffee break but will soon be hearing from the St Albans Civic Society.