FAQs
Can TfL install a different type of crossing, for example, one controlled with traffic lights?
There are advantages and disadvantages to both signalised and zebra crossings and these are determined by pedestrian flows, vehicle flows, vehicle speeds and site-specific issues.
At signal-controlled crossings, pedestrians should wait for a green pedestrian signal before crossing the road. At this site, this is likely to create two issues. Firstly, pedestrians will choose to cross before a green pedestrian signal is given or, if pedestrians do wait, the pavement could become congested outside the Medical Centre during peak periods of footfall.
A zebra crossing empowers pedestrians to exert immediate priority over vehicles, one advantage of which will be prevention of overcrowding on the pavement.
An assessment of the most appropriate type of crossing was made in line with TfL’s best practice procedures. The expected pedestrian and vehicle flows at this site, in conjunction with traffic speed analysis indicated that a zebra crossing was most suitable.
Can the crossing be completed earlier than spring 2025?
Safety is our top priority and is the reason that we are installing the crossing in this location.
There is planning and design work that has to be completed before we can install the crossing. Our current programme shows that spring 2025 is the earliest opportunity for the installation.
Can speed cameras be installed on this section of the road?
In our Vision Zero Action Plan, we committed to expanding London’s safety camera network as part of efforts to reduce speed and speed-related collisions in the capital. This is still our intention but we are not in a position to do so now. We are undertaking the essential preparatory work for this and ensuring we have all the necessary elements in place before rolling out new camera sites. This includes implementation of offence processing technology, recruitment of enforcement staff, and exploring new camera technology to ensure that we are investing in the best and most cost-effective systems for the future. We are also in the early stages of a contract relet for our two main safety camera providers with contracts due to expire in 2024.
Once we are in a position to expand the network, we will need to redo the detailed analysis to prioritise locations for safety cameras, using a methodology that was developed in consultation with the boroughs and London Councils prior to the pandemic. We need to do this to take account of any changes in travel projections and road user behaviour, as well as the significant changes made to road layouts during the pandemic.
You may also be interested to know that TfL is working in partnership with the MPS to run Community Roadwatch, a road safety initiative which aims to reduce speeding in residential areas. Community Roadwatch gives local residents the opportunity to work side by side with their local police teams, and use speed detection equipment to identify speeding vehicles in their communities. Warning letters are issued where appropriate, and the information captured may help to inform the future activity of local police teams.
Anyone wishing to take part in Community Roadwatch, or who wishes to suggest a residential area where there are community concerns around speeding, can contact their local MPS Safer Transport Team or email CommunityRoadwatch@met.police.uk. More information can be found online on the following webpage www.tfl.gov.uk/CommunityRoadwatch.
What kind of signage will be installed by the crossing?
The zebra crossing will be made visible to drivers with standard belisha beacons. There will also be road signage before the crossing that will alert drivers and give them advanced warning to reduce their speed.