New cycle lanes and additional 20mph road markings are among the road safety measures introduced in Furzedown, in a bid to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians in this part of Wandsworth.
The changes are being trialled as part of Wandsworth Council’s walking and cycling strategy – and follow requests from residents to ‘make Mitcham Lane safe for all’.
They are being introduced between Mitcham Lane’s junctions with Southcroft Road and Blegborough Road.
They include:
- Mandatory cycle lanes in both directions to provide designated and safe space for cycling
- Advisory cycle lanes in both directions between the junctions with Southcroft Road and Edencourt Road
- Narrower traffic lanes to reduce vehicle speeds
- A raised table at the existing signalised pedestrian crossing outside St James’ West Streatham Church to reduce vehicle speeds on the approaches to the crossing
- Additional 20mph road markings to remind drivers of the speed limit
- Double yellow lines along the cycle lanes to maintain accessibility for bicycles
These measures are being introduced via an Experimental Traffic Order (ETO) for six months so that residents have a chance to see the changes in action before feeding back their comments to the council ahead of a decision being taken as to whether they should be made permanent.
Clare Fraser, Wandsworth’s cabinet member for transport, said: “This scheme is being introduced after listening carefully to the views of local residents and other stakeholders who told us they thought improvements could be made in this area to reduce road danger for the increasing number of residents who do not travel by car.
“We have therefore devised a package of measures which we believe will deliver those safety improvements and provides options to ensure those who use Mitcham Lane have access to affordable and safe mobility options.
“By adding additional transport infrastructure in Furzedown, we hope that this will provide residents with more choice and enable them to make a shift away from travelling by car. Taking concerted action to encourage active travel options is one way the council is working hard to improve local air quality and clean up the air we all breathe.”
20 April 2023