Next phase of town centre pedestrianisation schemes 

Trial pedestrianisation schemes in both roads over the past two summers have proved popular with businesses and residents wishing to enjoy al fresco dining and have made the roads safer for pedestrians and cyclists.  

In Northcote Road, members of this week’s council executive agreed proposals to spend £2.8m on measures including permanent barriers and bollards, allowing the road to be closed more easily in future. The proposal will now be discussed at the full council meeting on March 9. 

Nearby Abyssinia Close has been closed as part of the Northcote Road scheme, and the plan is to carry out improvements including creating a break-out space, a place for events and for installing a Christmas tree, and room for local businesses to put tables and chairs.  

In Old York Road the pedestrianisation scheme is in place during the week as well as at weekends, and has been assessed as providing significant help to local businesses.  Following the decision to make the closure permanent, the council has allocated £1.95m to refurbishing the road, replacing temporary materials with more hard wearing, attractive and inclusive materials as well as introducing elements to improve the biodiversity and ecological resilience of the street. 

How Old York Road could look

A public consultation has been launched so local people can have their say on the upgrades and comment on two closure options. One involves extending the pedestrianisation further to between Morie Street and Ferrier Street, preventing southbound access by motor vehicles. The other retains the current motor vehicle access. 

The pedestrianisation of Battersea High Street has also been deemed a success, and the closure will continue this summer, with further consultation planned.  

Cabinet member for economic development, skills and employment, Cllr Rhodri Morgan, said: “These closures are part of a package of measures to help local high streets recover post-pandemic, including the development of a Night Time strategy to support the night-time economy and a £5m Town Centre Investment Fund. 

“Over the last two summers the closures have helped to make these streets an attractive destination for people to eat and drink and businesses have really benefited.  

“Now we want to hear from people affected by the pedestrianisation of Old York Road to gather local views before making a decision on the final look and feel of the road.” 

Comment on the proposal online. Paper versions, including drawings and further information, can be found in Wandsworth Town Library, the council’s Customer Service Centre in Wandsworth High Street and the town hall’s Marble Hall Reception.