Background
Studies identified Old Bethnal Green Road (OBGR) in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets (LBTH) as a vulnerable area due to high volumes of air pollution, the fifth worst in London. The LBTH Liveable Streets Programme chose it for improvement. The aim of our design was to strengthen and improve the connection between the area’s green space and the local parade. This is to redefine the area as a place for people.
Process
This connectivity was achieved by removing traffic (approx. 8300 recorded daily) and providing infrastructure for sustainable travel modes. The public realm design incorporated SUDS to eliminate drainage issues, defined placemaking through seating, greening and provision of cycle facilities, and effectively reduced traffic, leading to the area’s transformation. Ongoing communications and engagement throughout the process secured a shared vision between stakeholders and the project team.
The design transformed the street from car dominated to a naturalistic, spacious, and safe route for locals. The provision of outdoor seating and public space will promote local spending and enable community events. The rain gardens will decrease flooding liability, increase biodiversity, and improve air quality. In the long term, improved air quality and increased active travel will improve the health of the local community.
Outcome
The council approved the preliminary and detailed design stages just before the first lockdown. The team met for the first time at a Teams Meeting in early April 2020. We were expectating to deliver the construction package in three months to enable start of construction in early July. We hit that deadline, working remotely through the hardships of the pandemic lock-down period. Construction started on time in July 2020 and the scheme is now complete and fully appreciated by the community.
“By all means, Old Bethnal Green Road was a terrible rat run. The area was filled with motor traffic racing through to avoid the traffic lights on Hackney Road. What a transformation, Tower Hamlets Council have done a superb job.”
Hackney cyclists
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