Immediate Removal and Cessation of Newham’s Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) Schemes

We the undersigned petition the Council to Immediately reverse the road closures made as part of the roll-out of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods across Newham that have been implemented without prior resident consultation or adequate notification. The road closures have been instigated under 'Emergency Covid-19 Regulations' but in many areas deliver no benefit in terms of social distancing or providing a more conducive environment for walking and cycling. They therefore fail to achieve the objectives set out by the government and represent a clear misappropriation of public funds

We demand LNewham commits to the following before implementation of any future traffic reduction schemes:

1. A full public consultation in each area including provision of modelling data and metrics to show they have addressed potential pitfalls, including unwanted traffic displacement and full details of how the effects of any changes will be evaluated with a detailed timescale.

2. Traffic is not to be displaced from one set of residential streets to others, resulting in an increase in vehicle pollutants through idling in added congestion.

3. A full and thorough Equality Impact Assessment for each area takes place which includes surrounding roads before any changes are implemented.

4. Road changes should not unfairly disadvantage anyone living in the area, (particularly groups protected by the Equality Act 2010) either now or at any time in the future.

5. Road closures and modal filters must not divide communities; or adversely affect incomes of local businesses on which many residents (including the most vulnerable) depend, so they become unprofitable and risk closure.

6. Emergency services should be fully consulted and their concerns addressed to ensure they do not experience any delays due to displaced traffic or poorly positioned barriers.

Started by: Sophie Hammonds