HIGHWAY chiefs have vowed to act after a spate of accidents involving lorries – one of which crashed into a historic building.

Critics say satnavs on lorries leaving Eling Wharf are sending drivers down Eling Lane which is too narrow for HGVs.

One driver was attempting to turn round when his lorry hit the corner of Totton and Eling Heritage Centre, dislodging part of the stonework.

Town clerk Derek Biggs said: “We were lucky – it was a glancing blow that didn’t cause any significant problems. If the lorry had been a few inches further over it might have done a lot of damage.”

Totton South county councillor David Harrison said similar accidents in the road had resulted in damage to fences and parked cars.

Cllr Harrison blamed the truckers’ satnavs which were sending HGVs leaving Eling Wharf into Eling village rather than onto the A35.

He added: “Only a small percentage of lorries are involved but the number of traffic movements at the wharf is so high – almost one a minute – that that is enough to cause a significant problem.

“I’d like to see large red flashing lights warning HGVs not to proceed down Eling Lane.”

Mel Kendal, the county council’s executive member for environment, has been made aware of the heritage centre accident.

He said: “The county council took steps last year to improve signs opposite the entrance and exit from Eling Wharf but we will consider if the signage can be improved further.

“HGVs must be able to make collections and deliveries so it’s not possible to exclude them altogether.”