Southwark Council implements changes to Great Suffolk Street LTN

By Grainne Cuffe, local democracy reporter

Southwark Council has made changes to its Great Suffolk Street Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) after journey times for locals increased.  

The Great Suffolk Street LTN scheme was installed in December 2020 as part of the London Streetspace Plan and response to the Covid-19 emergency to promote active travel and allow for social distancing.  

The council said the move is in response to problems with a reduction in access “that has caused a disproportionate effect on journey times for some local residents”. 

The changes, in effect since April 29, involved removing some road closures in the area.  

An update on the Commonplace website states: “We have been monitoring the Great Suffolk Street LTN since its installation in December 2020.  

“This has been done via the Commonplace website, resident feedback to Highways, and through discussions with ward councillors and the emergency services. 

“Issues have been highlighted regarding the reduction of access that has caused a disproportionate effect on journey times for some local residents. 

“In order to rebalance the impact of the scheme, whilst keeping it in line with Southwark’s response to Covid-19, there are a number of changes that will be taking place.” 

The changes include removing the road closure in Great Suffolk Street/Southwark Bridge Road to allow access to Webber Street, and removing the no entry restrictions on Sawyer Street/Southwark Bridge Road and on Lant Street/Southwark Bridge Road. 

Residents can comment on the changes here: https://gssapril2021.commonplace.is/  

A report in March by Alexander Rozema, principal project manager, cited the same issues.