Camden Council has agreed to trial the removal of motor traffic from part of Camden High Street. This new pedestrianised space will be accompanied by changes to key nearby streets, creating safer and healthier public places for residents, businesses, and visitors.
Over 70% of people in the public consultation said they supported pedestrianisation and the proposal to trial a motor traffic-free section of Camden High Street.
The trial will see the removal of motor vehicles on Camden High Street, from the junction with Parkway and Kentish Town Road, in front of Camden Town Underground station, and up to the junction of Jamestown Road and Hawley Crescent. Buses towards Chalk Farm will travel along Kentish Town Road and then Hawley Crescent before continuing northward.
TfL has provided £130,000 for the development of the trial.
The council will keep the trial under continual review and collect a range of data to test the impacts including feedback from residents, businesses and visitors. Following the trial and considering the data and feedback collected, consideration will be given to next steps, which could include the closure being made permanent.
Councillor Adam Harrison, Cabinet Member for Planning and a Sustainable Camden, said:
“Camden Town is an internationally recognised destination and an important transport hub. Its iconic markets, music venues, and businesses draw people in from across London, the rest of the UK, and the world.
“The high street is the first thing many people see when they exit Camden Town tube or get off the bus. But at peak times there can be as many as 40,000 people on the high street, creating significant overcrowding and a stressful experience. So many people ask why the high street is not already pedestrianised – now we are delivering on that call.”
Will Norman, London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said:
“This trial is great news for Camden. Removing traffic will improve air quality and enable the high street to thrive as local residents and visitors enjoy a safer, cleaner and more attractive environment.
“This scheme forms part of Camden Council’s plans to establish a Low Emission Neighbourhood in Camden Town, backed by £500,000 of funding from the Mayor’s London Air Quality Fund. It’s a great example of an ambitious, locally led project that improves London’s air quality and supports the Mayor’s aim for a fairer, greener London for everyone.”
(Pic: Mapillary)
