Low traffic neighbourhood (LTN) schemes have been very popular in London over the last few years. They actually date back to the 70s, but many councils chose to introduce more of them in 2020 due to the pandemic. However, they tend to divide opinion. Some are in favour whereas others criticise them. What we want to do here is look at the LTNs in one borough and the local council’s recent decision regarding them. Then, if you need property management in Tower Hamlets, you can come to us.

How do they work?

Before we dive into it, let’s have a quick look at LTNs, how they work, and the benefits. The basic idea is they restrict access to through traffic. They stop drivers from using streets as a short cut to reach other nearby routes. Instead, they ensure access only for locals.

There are several potential benefits here. Primarily the idea is they improve safety. Many of these side streets were never meant for high volumes of traffic. So, they tend to lack safety measures like traffic lights. This means there is a higher risk of accidents and injuries. There are further concerns because many of them are residential areas.

Secondly, the LTNs can work to improve air quality. This works because it reduces the number of vehicles that can use the local roads. As a result, it dramatically reduces emissions in these areas. That is especially good news for residential streets.

Things like LTNs can have an impact on house prices. It is worth considering, especially if you are thinking about investing and things like property management in Tower Hamlets.

Removing schemes

Tower Hamlets Council revealed in September that they will remove almost all of the road closures in the borough. The majority of them have been operating since their introduction during the pandemic.

However, the Aspire party that got council control in 2022 has been critical of the programme. Most notably, they claim the previous Labour council “botched” the scheme. They are particularly critical of “adverse impacts” such as road closures hindering emergency vehicles.

With that in mind, the council has chosen to remove most of the LTNs in the area. This includes in Bethnal Green, Columbia Road, and Arnold Circus. Only a few will remain, such as a scheme in Wapping and closure of Canrobert Street.

Criticism

The interesting thing here is the plan to remove the LTNs has drawn a lot of criticism from local groups. In most cases people are against road closures. However, a council consultation in Tower Hamlets found there was support for schemes in Bethnal Green (58% for retaining them) and Brick Lane (59%).

Many locals were in support because the road closures improve safety and air quality. They are particularly in favour of how the LTNs can make streets safer for children and older residents.

What next?

The Council has said they will scrap the LTNs and invest in alternative “active travel” schemes. They will be spending £6m on this. These programmes can improve walking and cycling in various areas, however there aren’t many details for what will happen in Tower Hamlets.

Do you want reliable property management in Tower Hamlets?

Finefair Ltd works to support investors with all kinds of assets. We know it can be tricky to manage a number of buildings, whether it is homes, apartments in blocks, or HMOs. New and experienced landlords can have some issues. Luckily, we can offer convenient, reliable services. They can even include guaranteed rent.

So, if you want to arrange property management in Tower Hamlets, speak to us. We’ll recommend services for any assets.