Transport for London (TfL) are asking people to have their say on newly unveiled plans for a major extension to west London's Cycleway 9 route.
Despite the consultation, construction on the extension is dependent on TfL securing a sufficient long-term future funding agreement with Government. TfL sources say that by consulting now it will allow the capital’s transport regulators time to assess public responses and ensure the design is deliverable whilst discussions continue.
The planned changes between Brentford and Hounslow aims to make thousands of walking and cycling journeys each week safer and easier, enabling more people to use healthier and more sustainable forms of travel.
Enabling more people to walk, cycle and use public transport is still seen as vital to reducing congestion and air pollution.
The plans would include:
4.1km of new protected cycle lanes along London Road, between Brentford and Hounslow, to keep people cycling separated from motor traffic
A new cycle connection to Brentford Dock and the Grand Union Canal
A new signalised junction with pedestrian crossings at The Ham
Improved pedestrian crossings on High Street in Hounslow
Improved pedestrian crossings and cycle connections to and from Spur Road and Twickenham Road
New trees and other improvements to make the area look and feel more pleasant, while also helping to adapt to climate change.
The changes would form part of a series of infrastructure upgrades by TfL, Hammersmith & Fulham Council and Hounslow Council along the busy Cycleway 9 corridor.
Work on Chiswick High Road has created a protected route for cycling using light segregation wands, while Hammersmith & Fulham Council is constructing a Safer Cycling Pathway between Goldhawk Road and Hammersmith Gyratory.
A protected space for cycling has been constructed on the South Circular Road by Kew Bridge and TfL started work in November 2021 to transform the Hammersmith Gyratory for cycling.
The consultation is now open at tfl.gov.uk/Hounslow-Brentford and people will be able to have their say on the plans until Wednesday 16 February 2022.
Will Norman, London's Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said: “We've seen a massive increase in people walking and cycling in the past few years and we are working closely with boroughs like Hounslow and Hammersmith & Fulham to help transform roads and make sure there is enough space for people to walk and cycle around the capital safely.
“If TfL secures a long-term financial deal with the Government which allows this cycleway extension to go ahead, pedestrians and cyclists could see huge benefits from the new connections to the Brentford Dock and Grand Union Canal.
“Local residents could also be able to enjoy the other improvements, including new crossings and the planting of new trees, which would improve the look and feel of the area. I urge everyone to have their say in this new consultation and share their views with us.”
