Plans to build a new traveller park in Bellingham would be "inherently dangerous for children", according to councillors.

Lewisham Council has been asking residents for feedback on their plans to use land in the borough as a permanent home for travellers.

The council’s preferred site, Pool Court in Bellingham, would become Lewisham’s only gypsy site if plans become reality.

Residents have just three days left to feed back on proposals, which have caused controversy with local councillors.

Bellingham ward councillor Sue Hordijenko believes Pool Court is unsuitable because it is located between a railway line and a river.

She believes it would be "inherently dangerous for children" and she doesn’t want a "marginal community packed in a marginal location".

Fellow ward councillor Alan Hall added: "Pool Court would place a local scaffolding yard in jeopardy and would threaten an area of ecological interest."

He urged the Mayor of Lewisham, Damien Egan, to broaden the terms of the site search.

Thurston Road by Lewisham station was the last permanent site for travellers in the borough before its closure in 2009.

The council says there will need to be at least six pitches for travellers by 2031.

A statement read: "As we do with all our residents, we have been looking at their housing needs.

"Some traveller families currently live in traditional bricks and mortar homes but would prefer to live in a mobile home on a permanent pitch."

Lewisham Council’s head of planning says discussions have been made with travellers who say Pool Court would be the best option because of local family connections.