Croydon council is to replace a controversial Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) with revised restrictions rebranded as a ‘healthy streets scheme’ and featuring camera-enforced restrictions instead of physical barriers.
The council said the scheme, which is technically an 'experimental' LTN implemented under an experimental traffic order, addresses concerns raised by residents and businesses.
Planters have been removed from the five roads – Auckland Road, Sylvan Hill, Stambourne Way, Fox Hill, and Lancaster Road – and will be replaced by ‘camera-enforced closures giving better access to emergency vehicles and local residents,’ the council said.
Access to a local surgery will also be improved by moving the current bus gate location, and there will be two extra disabled parking bays.
Some motorists, including registered car clubs, taxis, emergency vehicles, local teachers, and carers will be able to drive through the ‘partial closures’, as will ‘residents within the LTN boundary’.
A new healthy streets initiative is set to make #CrystalPalace streets safer, quieter and healthier. It would replace the previous planter scheme, giving better access to emergency vehicles and local residents. https://t.co/p1M6wBf6zY pic.twitter.com/yxSAFwZuiK
— Your Croydon (@yourcroydon) February 24, 2021
The council said the decision is subject to further discussions with neighbouring boroughs ‘to make sure it is suitable for residents of both boroughs’.
This is a reference to neighbouring Bromley, whose leader said last year that it was considering legal action over the knock-on impact of the LTN and wrote to transport secretary Grant Shapps over the issue.
Streets will remain open in all directions until an agreement has been reached.
Muhammad Ali, cabinet member for Sustainable Croydon, said: ‘This is a balanced approach that allows us to reach our goal of encouraging more walking and cycling, making streets safer and reducing the number of unnecessary car journeys in this neighbourhood. At the same time we are improving access for more local residents, emergency vehicles, and those making essential car trips.'
He added: ‘I look forward to working with Bromley to develop our plans further, and collaborate on our shared goal of safer, healthier streets for all members of our community.’
The scheme falls under the umbrella of London mayor Sadiq Khan's Streetspace policy, which was last month quashed by the High Court.
