Shape Better Streets Croydon & Bromley

Local support for LTN

Here’s the view of local resident Martin Wheatley posted on Facebook

There’s been a lot on here [Facebook ] recently about Croydon Council’s existing and planned changes to Auckland Road and nearby streets – of which I am a resident. With no disrespect to the views which have been expressed, and for the sake of balance, let me offer a different take.

Thought of commuting by cycle?

Why not give it a go. The chances are you will get to your destination far faster than by car. Just don’t take the main roads – too much pollution for your lungs, less safe and often slower.

Latest – A fifth of Brits say they’re considering cycling to work

Benefits

it makes you fitter
it makes you healthier – better respiratory fitness (important in these times)
less likely to catch germs/virus than on public transport
it makes you richer
it saves you time
there is no frustration sitting in traffic jams
it evaporates stress after a difficult day at work
you see streets you never knew existed
sometimes great thoughts come to mind while cycling – solutions to long standing problems can spring into your mind!

Support for Croydon Council’s plan

Dear Croydon council

I live near the Auckland Rd Cypress Hill junction.

Before the bus gate; barrier with flowers

The road block was fantastic – we saw our non cyclist teenagers both cycling down the streets learning the dangers in a safe way and they now want to cycle to school or walk. The whole road was jogging, chatting in front gardens, cycling, playing outside and dog walking while remaining distanced. It’s been amazing.

How is all this being paid for?

In May 2020, the Transport Minister, Grant Shapps, announced £250 million for an emergency active travel fund (the first stage of a £2 billion investment).

Pop-up bike lanes with protected space for cycling, wider pavements to allow social distancing, safer junctions, and cycle and bus-only corridors were promised across England.

What does Croydon Council say

This is what Croydon Council Highway Improvements Team say:

Scheme background:

The road closures and other measures across the borough have been installed at speed in response to covid-19 pandemic with the aim of reallocating road space to cyclists and pedestrians enabling safe, socially distanced active travel and form part of the Council’s Streetspace Improvement Programme (CSIP). The central government imposed lockdown has resulted in a substantial reduction in motor traffic, creating less polluted, quieter streets across our borough. Many people have opted to cycle or walk instead of using their own vehicles or public transport, in some areas there has been a 70% increase in the number of people using bicycles for exercise, safe and socially distanced travel.