Have your say on Hackney Council’s proposals to ‘make it safer’ to walk and cycle around Shoreditch

Hackney Council is launching a consultation today on three schemes they say will make it easier and safer to walk and cycle around Shoreditch.

The proposals are part of a new approach from the council to street layout which it says will improve air pollution by reducing vehicle use.

The three schemes are inspired by previous works, like the award-winning redesign of Leonard Circus and changes to the Rivington Street junction with Charlotte Road.

The council firstly wants people who live, work or visit Shoreditch to suggest ideas on how to turn a neglected alleyway between Hoxton Square and Bowling Green Walk into a safe environment for pedestrians and cyclists. A consultation will be launched tomorrow (Fri) seeking people’s views on the plans.

Bosses would also like feedback on a plan to close Garden Walk to through traffic, to prevent cars and vans from using it as a rat run between Rivington Street and Great Eastern Street.

And finally they are asking for suggestions on how to make it easier to walk and cycle in New Inn Yard.

The council’s transport chief, Cllr Feryal Demirci said: “Creating an environment that will encourage more walking and cycling as well as improving air quality within the borough is a key part of Hackney’s transport strategy.

“These schemes will rebalance the street environment to make it easier and safer to walk and cycle in the area.

“They will enhance the character of Shoreditch, making it feel more secure - improving everyone’s walking experience.”

Two years ago the Dutch-inspired redesign of Leonard Circus impressed at the Urban Transport Design Awards, where the project was named overall winner.

The new layout at the junction with Paul Street saw trees and seating take centre stage.

Kerbs were removed and road markings and traffic signs were minimised to “deprioritise” vehicles.

The council will be holding drop-in events so that anyone affected by or interested in the plans can speak to council officers.

For more information and to have your say on the proposals, see hackney.gov.uk/street-consultations.