Campaigners have celebrated a High Court ruling declaring the removal of three Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) in East London as unlawful, labeling it a „victory for local residents.“
In September 2023, Tower Hamlets Council expressed intentions to dismantle the LTNs, prompting a challenge from the group Save Our Safer Streets (SOSS). The court’s decision highlighted the council’s failure to reconsult the community as a key factor in its ruling.
SOSS representatives stated that „thousands of local residents will be extremely pleased and relieved“ by the outcome. Meanwhile, Tower Hamlets Council, under the leadership of Mayor Lutfur Rahman, expressed disappointment, while the Mayor of London described the ruling as „good news for Londoners.“
Details of the Low Traffic Neighbourhoods
The LTNs in question are situated on Columbia Road, Arnold Circus, and Old Bethnal Green Road, and they will remain operational while the legal proceedings unfold.
In a comprehensive 26-page judgment, Lord Justice Singh, Lord Justice Arnold, and Lord Justice Miles concluded that Tower Hamlets had violated its local implementation plan (LIP) obligations and neglected to consider the LIP in its decision-making process.
Ted Maxwell from SOSS remarked, „Things have changed significantly in the three and a half years since the mayor first sought to eliminate the LTNs. More residents in Tower Hamlets are recognizing the advantages of calmer streets. At a time when many residents are facing financial difficulties, there are far better uses for public funds than dismantling community spaces, which would endanger our streets and jeopardize public health.“
- Tower Hamlets has the second-highest rates of childhood obesity in London.
- It also has one of the highest rates of hit-and-runs in the city.
- Seventy-one percent of children in the borough live in poverty.
Responses from Authorities
Last May, Lambeth Council faced a setback in a significant High Court ruling regarding the implementation of an LTN in South London.
A spokesperson for Transport for London (TfL) stated, „Walking and cycling infrastructure, including LTNs, is crucial for enhancing street safety and promoting active travel throughout London. We are pleased with the court’s decision, which clarifies the legal responsibilities of London boroughs to implement and maintain schemes funded by TfL in alignment with the mayor’s transport strategy.“
A representative for Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan commented, „This ruling is beneficial for road safety, reducing road hazards, tackling air pollution, and fostering healthier, more livable neighborhoods.“
In response to the ruling, a spokesperson for Tower Hamlets Council expressed disappointment, noting that previous court decisions had favored the council. They indicated plans to review the judgment and consider future actions.
Bildquelle: Bildquelle: Tim Rüßmann auf Unsplash
