Pedestrians and cyclists in Wandsworth are set to benefit from a multi-million overhaul of the town centre.
Transport for London and the local council are planning to remove the existing gyratory and route traffic away from the town centre by making Armoury Way two-way.
Through traffic will bypass the high street by using Putney Bridge Road, Armoury Way, Swandon Way and Trinity Road, allowing some sections of the high street to be made bus and cycle only.
Pedestrians will also benefit from additional crossings, making it safer and easier to enjoy the growing range of retailers in the high street and nearby shopping centre.
Work will start in 2018 after a public consultation showed a majority of local residents backed the changes.
Funding will be provided by TfL through its growth fund and by Wandsworth Council which is securing funding from local developments.
Mayor Boris Johnson said: “For far too long pedestrians and cyclists have been put off by the levels of traffic in Wandsworth Town Centre.
“It’s a traffic-dominated, intimidating environment, so I’m delighted that our plans to make it more inviting can now happen. It’s another great example of how we’re investing in improving roads across the Capital to make them safer and easier for all road users.”
Leon Daniels, Managing Director of Surface Transport at TfL, said: “Our planned improvements at Wandsworth Town Centre will change the road layout to make it safer and support the area’s growth.
“These plans were supported by the majority of people and we hope they will open up the town centre to new and exciting investments as it is transformed into a safer, more pleasant place to be and visit.”
Ravi Govindia, Wandsworth Council leader, said: “This proposal will take the regeneration of Wandsworth Town to the next stage and ensure this thriving town centre reaches its full potential.
“Hundreds of new jobs have been created here in recent years and if we want that to continue we must rationalise the road network and channel traffic away from the high street so it becomes far more pedestrian-friendly.
“The scheme will also create better and more usable outside space throughout the town centre, which would be great news for local businesses, residents and visitors. It would mean less noise, a more welcoming environment and improved air quality.”
