Halt on 393 bus whilst traffic calming measures reviewed (Islington Liberal Democrats)

Islington Liberal Democrats <Islington_ld@cix.co.uk>

Halt on 393 bus whilst traffic calming measures reviewed

March 15, 2002 12:00 AM

Local Liberal Democrat campaigners in Highbury have successfully delayed London Transports plans for a new bus route up Highbury New park until fears over traffic calming and safety have been resolved. Local residents have petition Councillors Dave Barnes and Laura Willoughby after London Transport, without consultation, ordered the council to take away current traffic calming measures to make way for their new route. Cllr Dave Barnes, who campaigned for the original traffic calming 10 years ago said îThis used to be known as the most dangerous road in Islington - we do not want that reputation to return. There are concerns that the new measures will not be enough - and although we welcome new bus routes we must ensure that people are consulted and can put across what are important concernsî Local Campaigner Anna Berent said: said. ìWe cannot stop London transport introducing new bus routes, but we do have power over traffic calming and it is up the council to ensure residents are happy with these changes. We appreciate that traffic calming and siting of bus stops has to be right before the bus route can come into force.î GLA Members join the battle over poor consultation Liberal Democrats have questioned the Mayor on how well, or otherwise, TfL consults with local people when developing and implementing significant new transport schemes and used the consultation on the 393 bus route as the prime example of poor consultation. Cllr Laura Willoughby said "TfL should take a proactive role right from the start of a project, holding meetings with all the stakeholders and residents. TfL has to engage in proper consultation and not just pay lip service to the idea!î They are not communicating well with local people and have often shown a conceited, arrogant attitude towards the concept of engagement.î