Stoke Newington one-way system: Major changes for cyclists, drivers and pedestrians

Delayed work improving the area around the Stoke Newington High Street one-way system is expected to restart later this financial year, City Hall has confirmed.

Plans were first formulated between Transport for London (TfL) and Hackney Council over a decade ago, and in 2019, TfL held a consultation and published fresh proposals to overhaul the “outdated, intimidating 1960s gyratory”.

They included building a protected northbound cycle lane, installing three new pedestrian crossings, and creating a southbound bus and cycle lane, moving away from the current one-way system.

Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said at the time the changes will “make the area safer and healthier for everyone by helping improve air quality and reduce congestion and we continue to work in partnership with Hackney on exciting plans across the borough”.

Construction was initially planned to begin in autumn 2020, with the expectation it would last 18 months. However, work was put on ice in 2020 due to the impact of the pandemic on TfL’s finances.

In response to a written question submitted by Labour London Assembly Member (AM) Sem Moema, City Hall has now confirmed when work on the scheme is due to begin again.

Officers wrote that despite ongoing capital funding constraints, “TfL is committed to progressing plans to improve the gyratory. Options will be considered which deliver safety and Healthy Streets benefits, support bus services, and are affordable”.

“TfL is working alongside the London Borough of Hackney to determine the best approach at this location and expects to recommence design work later this financial year,” they added.

Commenting on the renewed timeline, Cllr Mete Coban MBE, Hackney Council cabinet member for climate change, environment and transport, said: “We know residents in Stoke Newington have long wanted to see the one way system made safer and better for walking and cycling - and it’s been over a decade since plans were first formed by TfL and the council.

“However, it is a TfL controlled road so we’re delighted to finally see plans progressing. We’ll be working closely with them on its implementation.”