Plans to extend the North-South Cycle Superhighway to King’s Cross have been approved by London Mayor Sadiq Khan following a public consultation in which 70% of respondents backed the proposals.
The extended route, which will run from Stonecutter Street to King’s Cross, will be predominately segregated from other traffic, although some stretches will see cyclists diverted onto quiet back streets.
Once the extension is open, Transport for London says cyclists will have “a safe and direct route” between Elephant and Castle and King’s Cross, improving central London’s accessibility by bike.
The agency stresses that local changes along the route, including upgraded crossings and the installation of tactile paving, will deliver improvements for other road users, including pedestrians.
It’s also pledged to “work closely” with the RNIB, which has raised concerns about the safety of visually impaired staff and visitors visiting its HQ, to ensure the route’s passage along Judd Street does not endanger vulnerable pedestrians.
A detailed design will now be developed and, subject to planning approval from Camden Council and Islington Council, construction will begin in spring 2017.
Mayor Khan said: “We must make it safer and easier for all Londoners to cycle. It can have major benefits for our health, and making cycling part of people’s everyday lives will also help clean up London’s toxic air.
“The extension of the North-South Cycle Superhighway will make a big difference joining up existing and planned safe cycle routes in this part of London, and make cycling a safe and practical option for thousands more Londoners.
“We’re determined to learn all the lessons from previous superhighway schemes, and we’ve listened carefully to everyone who responded to the consultation. This includes incorporating wider pavements and more crossing points to ensure pedestrians properly benefit from the new scheme too.”
Alan Bristow, TfL’s Director of Road Space Management, added: “The first part of the North-South Cycle Superhighway has been a great success and is already being used by thousands of Londoners daily. We’re now keen to complete the route to enable even more cycling journeys, but will be planning the project carefully to minimise disruption to other road users.”
TfL says it will “take on board” lessons learned from previous routes and develop a project timetable which is “fully coordinated” with other roadworks, it will also explore the potential for more night time working to reduce construction time.
