Brixton Hill’s low-traffic experiment looks set to become permanent feature

Lambeth council wants to make a Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) scheme permanent, believing it is delivering better air quality from an overall decrease in traffic.

The Brixton Hill LTN was introduced in September 2023 through an Experimental Traffic Order, which the council now wants to replace with a new permanent traffic order.

The experimental scheme used traffic filters to restrict certain vehicles from entering the LTN, while ensuring all premises remain accessible by motor vehicles.

Launched as part of the borough’s Low Traffic Neighbourhood programme, Brixton Hill LTN aimed at reducing through-traffic and vehicle speeds to improve air quality, enhance safety, and promote walking and cycling.

So far, the local authority says it has seen a 58 per cent decrease in traffic within the LTN and an 83 per cent drop in vehicles exceeding speed limits within the neighbourhood.

Cycling has surged, with increases of 27 per cent across the LTN, including an 82 per cent rise on Lambert Road – at the epicentre of the target area.

Exemptions for emergency services, Blue Badge holders, and other essential users have been included in the scheme and would remain if the LTN becomes permanent.

Deputy leader Cllr Rezina Chowdhury, cabinet member for Sustainable Lambeth and Clean Air, said: “Brixton Hill LTN has been a great success and the effects are clear. There are now fewer vehicle journeys overall and a significant increase in the number of people walking, cycling, wheeling or scooting.

“Lambeth council is transforming streets across the borough to make them safer, calmer and cleaner. The Brixton Hill LTN is a great example of how working with local communities can achieve benefits for everyone.”

Pictured top: Residential Lambert Road is a focal point for the Brixton Hill LTN (Picture: Google Street View)