Issue - meetings

The meeting received a presentation from Graham Nash, Senior Programme Manager and Stephen O’Connor, Consultation Manager at Transport for London (TfL) regarding the proposals for changes to the Tottenham Hale Gyratory system.  These envisaged the current one-way traffic system being changed to a two-way one, and the creation of a public square and a larger and improved bus station outside Tottenham Hale station. 

The proposals included –

·        Better facilities and access for pedestrians and cyclists

·        Reduced traffic volumes on Broad Lane

·        New larger bus station at Tottenham Hale underground and railway station

·        Buses available in two-way directions and more convenient bus stops

·        New public square at Tottenham Hale Station, and improved footways in the area

·        Increased traffic capacity on the two-way traffic system with no significant change in journey times for road users

·        The new bus station and public square would be at the heart of the proposed new urban centre for Tottenham Hale

·        Improved access to properties for residents and businesses

·        Linkage with the Council’s development proposals for the Down Lane Park area

In response to questions Graham and Stephen confirmed that Transport for London’s timetable following the consultation period would be to seek planning permission next summer with the works commencing after the 2012 Olympic Games, and being completed by 2014.  Whilst the Olympics, preparations for which had implications for TfL, the timings of the works were more governed by availability of the total £37m funding which included the improvements to the bus station.

Concern was expressed regarding peak time traffic, on Saturdays and Sundays, at the retail park and the corresponding effect on Broad Lane, possible rat-running and pedestrian access.  An additional pedestrian crossing would be installed in Broad Lane but residents were concerned that overall, the proposals would have less crossings (three) than at present and the informal signal crossing at the Philip Lane and High Road junction was inappropriate, dangerous and should be re-thought. 

The meeting was advised that TfL were aware that the cycle route proposals were still in the early stages and need further detailed work.  The issue of poor drainage and problems with water mains would also be raised with Thames Water in an effort to ensure replacement works were completed before TfL undertook their works.  The proposals for landscaping were broadly welcomed but, as with other areas of the proposals TfL actively welcomed local people’s views.