A prominent London roadway and popular tourist spot is set to become permanently closed to vehicles. Camden High Street will see full pedestrianisation after completing a year-and-a-half trial period.
This location serves as a famous visitor attraction in the capital city, housing the historic Camden Market, which draws approximately 250,000 weekly visitors.
Temporary pedestrian restrictions have been in place on Camden High Street since last May, stretching from the exterior of the tube station to The Elephant's Head pub. Later on, these motor-free zones might reach as far as Camden Lock Bridge.
Following a public survey, 57 per cent of participants expressed a desire for the permanent removal of traffic from the street.
Councillor James Slater said, “Camden Town is an important shopping and transport hub for local residents as well as being an internationally recognised destination that draws people in from across London, the rest of the UK, and the world.”
He continued, “After 18 months, we asked this summer whether you wanted to see the pedestrianisation become permanent.”
He stated, “Based on our consultation and the positive outcomes we have seen, we have made the decision to make it permanent.”
He added, “Better bus journeys around Camden Town are very important to us, that's why we will be introducing a trial bus lane on Kentish Town Road with the aim of speeding up northbound bus journeys.”
He further noted, “We will also be introducing additional new community safety patrols as part of a £1 million investment in Community Safety Officer patrols around Camden's town centres.”
He mentioned, “We also heard that many of you are open to the idea of the pedestrianisation being extended over Camden Lock Bridge towards the junction with Chalk Farm Road.”
He concluded, “We will therefore be developing and testing a design for a potential extension over the next few months, and we will publish further information next spring to seek your views on it.”
This decision follows the vehicle ban enacted yesterday on Oxford Street, which is the busiest street in the UK. The pedestrian-only zone on Oxford Street spans over half a mile. Upcoming plans include planting additional trees, installing seating areas, and constructing two public squares.
