Background
Hounslow Council was committed to improving safe cycle infrastructure; Cycleway 9 presented a massive opportunity to safely and sustainably connect local people with key destinations, residential areas, and parts of inner London.
Cycleway 9 was originally introduced as an emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following extensive engagement with local communities, these temporary measures were made permanent, and further sections of the scheme, including the recently completed Watermans Park to Alexandra Road, now provide safe and accessible active travel routes for local people.
Through its implementation, Cycleway 9 has encouraged more local people to choose active travel journeys. These decisions provide long-term benefits for people’s health, as well as reducing air pollution and creating a transport network that works for everyone.
Process
The new cycle route in West London has improved clarity and safety for cyclists by introducing segregated cycle lanes, effectively separating them from other vehicles.
Community feedback and insights were key in shaping the scheme. The team originally met some resistance, but they were able to address concerns and ensure the final designs were reflective of the community’s needs. We undertook work with organisations like Age Uk Hounslow and the Disability Network, ensuring the scheme improved all users’ accessibility.
A multidisciplinary team, combining engineering, engagement, sustainable transport, Hounslow councillors and construction specialists, worked together to minimise construction impacts. We established a flexible construction schedule by prioritising resident access and undertaking distributive works outside of peak hours.
Following the implementation, local cycling groups are now advocating for additional sections of the scheme to be undertaken.
Outcome
Following completion of works, local residents can now benefit from:
- One-way, protected cycle lanes on both sides of the High Street
- Two new pedestrian crossings at Alexandra Road and Pottery Road
- Higher-quality pavement surfaces for pedestrians
- Upgrades to four existing pedestrian crossings
- Redesign of side roads and junctions to create safer walking routes
Even more importantly, local residents and visitors can now use several kilometres of safe and accessible cycle and pedestrian infrastructure, connecting them to key destinations and residential areas. This is encouraging more people to leave their cars at home, creating a less polluted and more pleasant environment for all.
Impact
Since the introduction of Cycleway 9 in Hounslow, there has been a 47% increase in those choosing to cycle, with more then 3000 people using this new infrastructure each day.
This has immediate benefits for people’s health, helps to reduce air pollution and creates a transport network that works for everyone.
This project also provided supportive and welcoming spaces for people to develop their cycling skills and gain confidence. The completion of this new section has been praised by local social enterprises, such as Hounslow Cycle Sisters, who highlight how this infrastructure helps support their mission of encouraging more women to take up cycling.
Looking to implement new sustainable infrastructure in your borough? Get in touch with our team today: Enquiries – Marston Holdings