Haringey Maintains Preservation of Low-Traffic Areas
Haringey's Low Traffic Neighbourhood Schemes: A Focus on Fairness and Sustainability
The Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) schemes in Bounds Green, St Ann's, and Bruce Grove West Green, part of Haringey Council's 'Streets for People' program, have been made permanent following a successful trial period. These schemes, aimed at creating healthier streets and promoting active travel, have been a topic of discussion due to their impact on traffic, collisions, and air pollution.
Cllr Mike Hakata, Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Environment and Transport, emphasised the importance of these schemes being a just transition, focusing on fairness for all residents, including those with different needs. He mentioned that they have worked closely with the disabled community and other local communities to review and refine their exemptions.
Regarding the impact on traffic, the LTNs have been successful in reducing the volume of motor vehicles traveling through residential streets. On average, traffic on boundary roads increased by 3%, but within the LTNs, traffic has decreased by a significant 58%. This corresponds to a broader London trend of LTNs reducing through traffic and encouraging active travel modes.
As for collisions, while specific data for Bounds Green is not directly provided, LTNs generally contribute to safer roads by lowering vehicle speeds and traffic volume. In Bounds Green, collisions within the LTNs have decreased by 34%, and on boundary roads, they have decreased as well. A total of 80,000 fewer vehicles are counted per day.
In terms of air pollution, the intention of the LTNs is to improve air quality through reduced motor traffic and increased active travel. However, Haringey, like many urban areas, remains congested overall, which could suggest localized congestion issues elsewhere. In Bounds Green, the NO2 concentration increased by 12% across internal roads and 12% on boundary roads.
Cllr Mike Hakata stated that they have listened to feedback from residents, introduced one of the most extensive exemption schemes, and made changes in response to feedback. He expressed that this is their opportunity to demonstrate that Haringey is committed to creating a borough that works for everyone, not just for the next few years, but for generations to come.
A comprehensive program of improvements is underway for boundary road traffic levels, including better bus priority, enhanced pedestrian crossings, more protected cycle lanes, and measures to reduce congestion. Cllr Mike Hakata stated that when they create shared spaces that prioritise people, communities thrive.
In conclusion, the Bounds Green LTN and similar schemes in Haringey are designed and reported to reduce traffic volumes, enhance road safety, and improve air quality, but detailed empirical results on collisions and pollution specific to these neighborhoods are not publicly available. Despite this, the council remains committed to making these schemes fair and effective for all residents.
- The LTNs in Haringey's neighbourhoods have been a spotlight for the environmental science community, as they aim to combat climate-change through promoting active travel and reducing motor vehicle traffic.
- Cllr Mike Hakata, a proponent of industry-wide just transitions, is focusing on fairness within the LTNs, ensuring that their refinements meet the needs of the community, including those with disabilities.
- The financial implications of the LTNs in Haringey are being addressed through a comprehensive program of improvements for boundary road traffic levels, which includes investments in bus priority, pedestrian crossings, protected cycle lanes, and measures to reduce congestion.
- While the LTNs have seen an increase in NO2 concentration due to localized congestion issues, Haringey Council remains resolute in demonstrating environmental consciousness through their commitment to sustainability in transportation and the environment.
