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Transport for London (TfL) has set out the first phase of its proposals to transform streets in east London, by linking Dalston and Clapton with a new cycleway.
It is part of a wider route between Lea Bridge and Dalston which would link with the recently expanded cycleway network in Waltham Forest, where over seven kilometres of segregated cycle track has already been delivered as part of the TfL funded Mini-Holland programme. The route would also complement Hackney Council’s Liveable Neighbourhood proposals to introduce protected cycle tracks on Mare Street and provide a connection to central London via CS1.
Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: “These improvements would enable many more people to walk and cycle by creating a new link between Dalston and Clapton. By reducing car use and making our streets greener we will also ensure our streets are more accessible and welcoming.”
TfL is now inviting people to have their say on the first phase of the route, between Dalston and Powell Road. TfL’s proposals include:
– Dedicated cycle crossings across the A10 and providing a new link to Cycle Superhighway 1
– New and upgraded pedestrian crossings
– Changes to streets to reduce through-traffic and the speed of traffic
– Changes to some parking and loading provision
– Upgraded public spaces with more trees and plants
David Hughes, TfL’s director of investment delivery planning, said: “We’re working with communities across London to create walking and cycling routes, which will make it easier and safer for people to get around. Our proposals for Dalston and Clapton would enable thousands more people in the area to make everyday journeys by bike and on foot. I’d encourage everybody to take part in our consultation and to have their say.”
The consultation is now open for people to have their say here until 9th September. TfL will consult on its proposals for the second phase of the route, which includes protected cycle tracks and improvements to Lea Bridge Roundabout, at a later date. This second section will link to Waltham Forest.
Councillor Jon Burke, Hackney Council cabinet member for energy, waste, transport and public realm, said: “Hackney is London’s capital of cycling, with a higher cycling rate than any other borough, the most modal filters, and the largest amount of cycle storage, but we need to make it even easier for people to use their bikes.
“We are working closely with TfL on proposals for this first stage of the Lea Bridge to Dalston cycling route, which will provide a direct cycle route to Dalston and central London via Cycle Superhighway 1 for residents in Clapton and Lea Bridge. I’d urge people to have a look at the plans and get in touch with TfL to let them know what they think.”
The full cycleway planned between Lea Bridge and Dalston is approximately three kilometres. The route is being consulted on following TfL’s Strategic Cycling Analysis, which used data to identify 25 areas which showed the best potential for growing cycling numbers. Analysis has shown high demand for a cycle route connecting these neighbourhoods.
