‘All Change at Bank’ consultation launches with special interest questions for taxi users in London
The City of London has launched its new ‘All Change at Bank’ project, which aims to close further roads around Bank Junction and the Square Mile.
The All Change at Bank project follows the controversial ‘Bank on Safety’ scheme made permanent in September 2018, which restricted wheelchair accessible black cabs and other traffic through Bank Junction.
The All Change at Bank project is said to be aligned with the programme for Transport for London (TfL) to increase passenger capacity at Bank Station, which is due to complete by the end of 2022.
In questions 21 and 22 of the survey, COLC asks for feedback about the mix of traffic using the junction, along with a question asking what vehicles should be added to the mix including an option for licensed taxis.
Recently Lord Holmes of Richmond MBE said that Bank Junction black taxi accessibility is “not a luxury, but a necessity” for those with disabilities trying to get to appointments in the City.
The Conservative Lord highlighted the issue last year during lockdown whilst discussing a new motion based around Public Service Vehicles Open Data Regulations.
Some of the proposed All Change at Bank improvements include:
The closure of Threadneedle Street for motor vehicles between Bank Junction and Bartholomew Lane in both directions to create a walking and cycling only area.
The closure of Queen Victoria Street between Bucklersbury and Bank Junction for motor vehicles, except those vehicles exiting Walbrook in a westbound direction.
Keeping Princes Street open for only buses and cycles northbound, and in addition as a route for servicing to Cornhill in a southbound direction.
Widening pavements around the junction to accommodate the large number of people who walk through the area normally.
Talking to TaxiPoint in February the COLC are said to also be ‘monitoring’ the Streetspace ruling whilst Transport for London (TfL) ponders its appeal against the road network plans deemed as ‘unlawful’ by a High Court judge.
The authority situated in the financial district of the capital, also said it is monitoring any ‘potential considerations for the City’. The impact of the landmark ruling brought on by the licensed taxi industry is expected to have far reaching consequences not only across London, but potentially nationwide.
Lord Holmes of Richmond MBE said the decision to ban taxis from London’s Streetspace plans are similar to the ‘wrong-headed’ decision to ban black cabs from Bank Junction.
Chair of the Planning and Transportation Committee at the City of London Corporation, Alastair Moss, said: “Bank Junction has already undergone transformative change, from a busy and dangerous intersection to a safer and more pleasant environment for all.
“This proposal further builds upon those changes to continue the progression toward creating a world-class welcoming heart of the Square Mile, bounded by the iconic Bank of England, Royal Exchange and Mansion House.
“By making subtle changes to just a few of the arms of the junction, we will ensure the streets are even safer for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as being able to provide welcome improvements to the public realm in this busy part of the City.
“We encourage all of those who work, live and visit the City to provide their thoughts on the plan as we look forward to welcoming more people back to the Square Mile as the lockdown restrictions are eased.”
