Issue - meetings

To consider any requests received in accordance with Standing Orders.

There was a deputation put forward from Haringey Living Streets in support of the recommendations on making permanent the LTN trials in Bounds Green, West Green, Bruce Grove, and St Ann’s.

Lee VilinskyChair of Healthy Streets and Tottenham spoke in support of the LTN’s, and he congratulated the Council on successfully implementing three schemes and commended their commitment to a divisive but essential initiative. Mr Vilinsky shared that, on a personal level, the schemes had made it safer for him and his three children to walk or cycle to Downhills Park and Lordship Rec and he continued to outline the community benefits achieved in the LTN areas.

A desire was expressed for an expanded active travel network, particularly benefiting families and individuals new to cycling or wheeling. Mr Vilinsky highlighted ongoing challenges, including increased traffic from Spurs events, the Drum Sheds, and future developments like Meridian Water, which could disproportionately impact their neighbourhood without further action. Acknowledging that change takes time, he stated that this decision was a significant step forward and urged Haringey to accelerate efforts towards creating a healthier, more sustainable environment.

Mohammed Eljaouhari a resident of St Ann's ward spoke on behalf of the wider Haringey Living Streets Group. He expressed that it had been a long road to get to this position and felt the journey has just begun since the initial proposals were announced a few years ago through the implementation of the streets for people initiative. 

There had been voices on both sides advocating for and against the LTN schemes.

Mr Eljaouhari spoke about the positive benefits that he had seen with the changes such as a safer environment where children played in the streets, neighbours interacted more, and businesses continued to thrive. He asked the Council  to  implement  more LTN’and deliver promised further crossings and cycle lanes in the borough.

Mr Eljaouhari emphasised the importance of taking the next steps promptly to reassure residents that the initiatives were part of a broader, long-term plan. He referenced the Walking and Cycling Action Plan published two years earlier, which outlined Haringey’s goals to lead in climate action, reduce pollution and road collisions, and enhance the urban environment. He reminded the Council that public support for these efforts, which existed before the introduction of the low-traffic measures, had only grown stronger over time.

Councillor Hakata thanked the group for their deputation and emphasised the crucial role they played in advocating for change throughout the process. He acknowledged that none of the progress in Haringey’s local streets would have been possible without residents leading the way and speaking out. Also, it was stated that if the Cabinet voted to retain the schemes, they would form part of a broader plan. This plan, outlined in the Walking and Cycling Action Plan, included initiatives such as strategic cycle lanes, school streets, bike hangars, greening projects, and public realm improvements to create liveable and sociable neighbourhoods. The importance of ensuring these efforts benefitted everyone and continue to be co-produced  ...  view the full minutes text for item 82