London area reveals 'mind-blowingly good' upgrade
A central London neighborhood is undergoing a significant transformation to enhance the safety and ease of movement for cyclists and pedestrians. The Holborn Liveable Neighbourhood scheme, spearheaded by Camden Council, aims to promote walking and cycling while creating more inviting public spaces. This initiative aligns with London’s broader commitment to sustainable travel.
Transport for London (TfL) has already made notable progress this year by introducing 51 kilometers of new cycle lanes and installing over 1,600 bike parking spaces across the city. Building on this momentum, Camden Council's project targets an extensive network of streets, including Bedford Place, Bloomsbury Way, Great Ormond Street, High Holborn, Kingsway, New Oxford Street, and Southampton Row.
The plans have been praised as “mind-blowingly good” by the London Cycling Campaign, a charity dedicated to making cycling in London safer and more accessible.
Key proposals for the Holborn upgrade
Several central elements of the proposals focus on pedestrianisation, dedicated cycle lanes, and improved public spaces to reduce vehicle traffic and pollution levels. Some specific examples include:
- Great Russell Street
- Potential full pedestrianisation between Museum Street and Montague Street to create vibrant, seated public areas that support local business activity.
- Great Ormond Street
- Proposed conversion to one-way westbound traffic, accompanied by widened pavements to prioritise pedestrian movement.
- New Oxford Street
- Adding trees, plants, and seating with two different paths — a direct route through the space and a second winding path to enjoy the planting.
These modifications are expected to bring tangible environmental benefits, such as cleaner air quality, increased greenery, and enhanced urban accessibility. A distinct element of the project is the ‘Healthy Hospital Street’ initiative centred on Great Ormond Street. This concept seeks to establish a calmer, more welcoming street environment to benefit hospital visitors and staff, acknowledging the unique needs of this medical hub within Holborn.
The initiative builds on previously completed ‘STARter’ projects that addressed junction safety at Gray’s Inn Road, Theobalds Road, and Clerkenwell Road.
If fully implemented, the Holborn Liveable Neighbourhood project could significantly strengthen London’s reputation as a globally leading cycling city. It promotes liveability and encourages sustainable modes of travel in one of its busiest central districts.
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing LifestyleTeam@.co.uk.
