Camden Council announces plans to trial pedestrianisation of the busy high street.
It's been on the cards for a while, but now it looks like Camden High Street will now be pedestrianised — at least for a while.
A recent consultation found that 70% of responders were in favour of the trial, which would see all motor vehicles banned between the busy junction outside the Tube station, up to the crossroads with Jamestown Road and Hawley Crescent (pink area on the above map).
This stretch of road can get exceptionally busy with pedestrians, as the direct route between the Tube and the markets. Removing traffic will provide up to 50% more space for them to spread out and, of course, reduce the emissions they're all breathing in. The newly pedestrianised tarmac could also be used for occasional cultural events.
Buses and other motorists will avoid the section by passing along Kentish Town Road and then back along Hawley Crescent. Additional bays for deliveries and blue-badge parking will be created on nearby streets. Cyclists will still be able to use the stretch in a northbound direction.
The trial will begin later in 2025 ("with an opening event") and last for a maximum of 18 months. It is supported by £130,000 from TfL.
Concerns have been raised by locals that the diversions will create traffic chaos and greater pollution in surrounding streets. Perhaps. The trial will assess the ongoing impacts of the changes and respond accordingly. At the end of the trial, the council will have to weigh up whether the benefits outweigh the side-effects.
