The Notting Hill Gate Strategic Planning Document refers to a need to reduce traffic domination at Notting Hill Gate, and also to increase 'sustainability'.
However, the indicative design presented in the document (Figure 3) suggests that little thought has been given to making cycling - a mode of transport that could significantly reduce the impact of motor traffic in the area, and improve sustainability - a pleasant and viable option for everyone.
We feel that that the proposed design will do very little to increase the numbers of people cycling in the area. It therefore represents a major missed opportunity.
Indeed, the only proposals for cycling in the plan are 'wider nearside lanes' and Advanced Stop Lines. In the context of the width of this road - and the suggested intention to reduce the number of vehicle lanes in parts of the area covered by the plan - this is woefully inadequate.
DfT figures suggest this stretch of road carries around 28,000 motor vehicles per day. Very few people are willing to share roadspace while cycling, when motor traffic volume is this high. This means that cycling will, to all intents and purposes, remain designed out of the area covered by the SPD.
Physical measures are required to separate cycling from these levels of motor traffic, to make it an attractive and safe mode of transport, for people of all ages and abilities. The proposals fail to deliver this. Consequently substantial benefits to the area will be lost - benefits from reduced motor traffic, lower air and noise pollution, more people stopping and shopping in the area, and public health and wellbeing.
The consultation closes today, Thursday 23rd January. See also RBKC Cycling Campaign's response