TfL builds bike lane in Streatham to encourage cyclists

A new segregated cycle lane will be built to make cycling safer during the coronavirus pandemic.

The route will be almost 2km and will run from Sternhold Avenue to Holmewood Road in Streatham.

This is part of Lambeth council and Transport for London’s plans to make Streatham Hill safer and less intimidating for pedestrians and cyclists.

Other plans include creating new pedestrian crossings at convenient locations and changes to side road entry and exit rules.

They will also make the local area more attractive, by planting new trees and improving landscaping.

TfL consulted with local people, and found that 83 per cent of respondents agreed that the proposals would make people feel safer cycling through the area and 70 per cent saying the same about walking.

Will Norman, London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said:“We are doing all we can to support the increased numbers of Londoners who are walking and cycling and help prevent a damaging car-led recovery from the pandemic. 

“Permanent road changes, such as the transformation of  Streatham Hill, are key to this and it is positive that so many respondents to the consultation said it would make them feel safer on bike and on foot. 

“Temporary improvements also play an important role as the success of our local Streetspace measures shows. We will continue to work closely with Lambeth Council to further support walking and cycling as the detailed design work for the A23 is completed.”

Cllr Claire Holland, Deputy Leader of Lambeth Council said: “I’m delighted that residents have shown their strong backing for this transformational scheme for Streatham High Road which will make it much safer to walk, scoot, wheel or cycle.

“We know that many groups in society are underrepresented when it comes to using a cycle to get around and we know that the main barriers are accessibility and danger, real or perceived. Only by delivering transformational main road schemes like this one, together with area-wide low traffic neighbourhoods on our local streets, can we make Lambeth into a borough whereby everyone has access to affordable and safe mobility options.

“We look forward to continuing our work with Transport for London to deliver on this and much more across the borough to build a fairer, equitable Lambeth.”