Holborn junction a hotspot for cyclist deaths set for redesign

A complete redesign of the Holborn gyratory system has been proposed in an attempt to eliminate cyclist deaths or serious injuries, as part of the Vision Zero action plan which seeks to end such cases by 2024.

The junction has been a hotbed for cyclist deaths in recent years, with eight riders dying since 2008 and many more suffering injury while biking.

Lawyer Shatha Ali lost her life in a collision with a lorry in Holborn in March of this year, while in August 2021 Dr Marta Krawiec was also killed by a HGV at the same junction.

Camden Council has launched an “urgent” consultation on proposed changes to the Holborn gyratory system and surrounding roads, which includes an X-shaped pedestrian crossing outside the Tube station.

The proposal would also seek to reduce the lanes of traffic open to the general public from four to one on Procter Street, with a bus and taxi lane added as well as a two-way cycle lane.

London’s walking and cycling commissioner Will Norman has labelled the proposals by Camden Council as “really exciting”.

The council has said it was “imperative” to make changes to “reduce the risk of injury or death around High Holborn, Drake Street and Procter Street”.

The Labour-run council has said the estimated cost for the plans was approximately £500,000 to £750,000, with £500,000 already being secured from Transport for London.

Camden Council has ringfenced a further £250,000 to ensure the scheme is delivered with the final design, utility works and junction infrastructure details yet to be confirmed.

They’ve already made some changes to Southampton Row following the death of Dr Krawiec, but want to do more to ensure that no cyclists are killed or seriously injured on their roads.

The consultation on the above proposals closes on 11 November, after which all responses will be considered and Camden Council will decide whether or not to proceed with the scheme.