Growing interest in Central London walking network plan

Central London streets could be transformed into attractive pedestrian routes under proposals to create a Central London Walking Network connecting major visitor attractions, railway stations and parks.

London Living Streets is trying to build support for the proposal that would focus on older, characterful streets, “leaving the big roads built by the Victorians and Edwardians for through motor traffic”. 

A variety of measures could be used to improve conditions for pedestrians, including: widened pavements; reduced on-street parking; seating; public art; seating outside restaurants, pubs and cafes; improved and more frequent crossing facilities; and traffic reduction measures. 

“St Martin’s Lane is a good example of a street given over to motor traffic at the expense of pedestrians, who are crammed onto narrow pavements when the theatres and restaurants spill out,” says London Living Streets. “Simple improvements including removal of on-street parking and wider pavements could transform the street and give space back to those who need it most.”

One suggested route would connect Euston and Waterloo rail stations via the British Museum. 

The network would be decided in collaboration with boroughs.

“In the longer term, we propose an extensive network where through motor traffic would be confined to major distributor roads (with some exceptions for buses) leaving other streets to be part of ‘Low Traffic Neighbourhoods’ with access only for motor vehicles,” says the campaign group. 

It says the idea has the backing of Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, and the London Borough of Camden. A conference to discuss the network is being held on 28 November, organised by London Living Streets and the Urban Design Group.