CAMPAIGNERS fighting a psychiatric hospital's expansion plans say last week's escape by a convicted armed robber proves the development should not go ahead.

Llavuan Bennett, 24, absconded from Bethlem Royal Hospital, Beckenham, while on escorted leave in the hospital's grounds on November 10 at about 10am.

Bennett was convicted of robbery and firearms offences at Kingston Crown Court in June following a robbery at a Brixton newsagents.

He was at Bethlem undergoing a psychiatric assessment ordered by the judge prior to his sentencing on November 26.

Police say Bennett is "considered dangerous and should not be approached on any account".

West Beckenham Residents' Association chairman Ian Muir said: "We've kept raising the alarm but were assured by South London and Maudsley Trust this wouldn't happen.

"They've had more than two years to improve security there. If they can't cope with 29 beds, how can they look after 89? It goes to show they just aren't capable."

Ward councillor Rod Reed said: "They should freeze all their plans for expansion of the Denis Hill unit and try running the current operation properly."

The trust is planning to expand the Denis Hill medium secure unit by November 2006 and also to create an additional 10-bed secure unit for young offenders with mental health problems.

A spokesman said: "It was established at the planning appeal the Denis Hill unit had not contributed to a rise in crime.

"Security measures have improved over the past two years and there's a low rate of incidents in that part. If anything, incidents such as this contribute to the case for a new medium secure unit with a secure outdoor area."

Anyone aware of Bennett's whereabouts or with information about his escape should contact the Flying Squad on 020 8247 7932 or call 999 if they see him.