Traffic congestion during peak hours in North London has prompted Enfield Council to implement a traffic ban in a neighbourhood plagued by queuing traffic during school drop off and pick up times. The council has opened a statutory consultation on changes to a proposed low traffic neighbourhood (LTN) for Bowes Park, aimed at reducing traffic and improving air quality and safety in the area.
### Proposed Traffic Ban
The proposed LTN for Bowes Park covers an area in Grenoble Gardens and Tottenhall Road, as well as surrounding roads. Under the plan, traffic will be banned between 8.30am and 9.15am and between 2.45pm and 3.45pm during term time. This initiative aims to transform the area into a cycling and walking only zone during peak school hours, specifically around St Michael-at-Bowes School and Tottenhall School.
### Community Feedback and Support
Residents, businesses, and other stakeholders have until Sunday, October 20 to provide feedback on the proposed changes to the ‘Bowes East Quieter Neighbourhood’ scheme. The council is encouraging participation through surveys, drop-in sessions, and a webinar to gather input and address concerns from the community.
Feedback received in 2023 led to the design proposal for the Bowes East LTN, which has now evolved to include a new ‘school street’ concept. While the proposal has garnered support from some residents, the council is committed to ensuring that the changes align with the community’s needs and priorities.
### Traffic Management Measures
To address traffic congestion and improve safety, the council plans to implement several measures in the Bowes East LTN. For instance, right turns westbound on Grenoble Gardens will be banned during afternoon peaks from 4pm to 7pm on an experimental basis. This restriction aims to reduce queues and enhance safety in the area, particularly during peak traffic hours.
Additionally, a speed cushion will be installed at Melville Gardens, an area identified as experiencing excessive through traffic. The council also plans to ‘green’ the streets by adding grass, trees, and plants in designated areas, such as St Cuthberts Road and the southern end of Fairbrook Road.
### Expansion of the Low Traffic Neighbourhood
The proposed Bowes East LTN includes several roads in the area, such as Hereward Gardens, Princes Avenue, Tottenhall Road, Grenoble Gardens, Upsdell Avenue, Berkshire Gardens, Fairbrook Road, and St Cuthberts Road. This expansion aims to create a more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly environment, building upon the success of the existing ‘Bowes Primary Area’ LTN that was implemented in 2020 and made permanent in 2022.
### Community Engagement
To ensure transparency and community involvement, the council has scheduled a webinar on Wednesday, October 2 at 6pm, as well as drop-in sessions on Tuesday, October 8 and Saturday, October 12 at St Michael-at-Bowes Church of England Junior School. These events provide residents with an opportunity to learn more about the proposed changes, ask questions, and share their perspectives on the initiative.
For more information and to participate in the consultation process, residents can visit the Bowes East Quieter Neighbourhood page on Let’s Talk Enfield. By engaging with the community and gathering feedback, the council aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable neighbourhood that prioritizes the well-being of its residents.
In conclusion, the implementation of a traffic ban in North London during peak hours reflects the council’s commitment to addressing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and enhancing safety in the community. Through community engagement and feedback, the proposed low traffic neighbourhood aims to create a more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly environment for residents and visitors alike.
