Cars could be banned from Deptford High Street for up to eight hours per day

By Robert Firth, Local Democracy Reporter

Cars could be banned from Deptford High Street for up to eight hours per day under council plans.

A stretch of the popular shopping street between New Cross Road and Hamilton Street would be closed to vehicles under the proposed changes unveiled by Lewisham council.

Deptford High Street is currently pedestrianised three days per week. Lewisham council is asking residents whether they would prefer the street to be closed to traffic every day from 10am until 5pm, from 10am until 6pm or from 11am until 7pm.

The road’s closure is expected to allow for increased street trading in the area and more opportunities for cafés and restaurants to put out outdoor seating, according to the council. Repairs would be made to paving in the area, extra parking for bikes would be fitted and additional trees and flower beds would be planted.

There would also be dedicated zones for busking created along the street, as well as new seating areas and better lighting under the railway bridge.

All vehicles would be banned from Hales Street and Frankham Street, except for access to residents’ homes.

Cllr Louise Krupski, Deputy Mayor of Lewisham, said: “As we look to the future of town centres, we want to work with the community at every stage to make sure our improvements are designed by and for local people while ensuring no one is left behind.

“With over 60 per cent of Lewisham residents using public transport for commuting, and many walking or cycling as part of their daily routines, we’re focusing on making it easier for them to travel actively, safely and sustainably while also creating more space for people to enjoy what the high street has to offer.”

Residents can share their opinions on the planned changes to Deptford High Street until May 14.

Pictured top: Deptford High Street as it looks today (Picture: Lewisham council)