Congestion is absolutely an issue, but it would be wrong to view it as other than a very longstanding problem affecting numerous areas. Locally we are not some unique outlier. The opposite, traffic-light roads, will frequently lead to the alternate complaint, best summed up in Grange Park’s Cllr Day’s motion seeking help from speeding traffic, which I recently highlighted. (LTN – Is There an Alternative? 11 Nov 22)
Locally, what the Fox Lane LTN has resulted in is displaced traffic so that some streets, such as those mentioned petitioning, are experiencing traffic loads previously the preserve of several inner LTN streets. There is no “new” traffic, simply other residents now experiencing the downsides long the preserve of others. That, and increased inconvenience, particularly for some inner residents who previously had multiple entry / exit routes when choosing to drive.
And there is the balance: for decades the car has been all-mighty, its needs foremost, but no more for London is not to be a car-dominated city. That’s the agreed plan. That means for instance, locally, several streets who have quietly campaigned for over three decades (I’m told) finally have relief from through traffic. It’s been displaced, causing some issues for some immediate residents; and at certain times of day a slow down for those choosing, or required, to drive.
But things do change, for instance take Broomfield Avenue and its previous jaw dropping 6000+ daily vehicle transits. Old Park Road apparently had 50% of the street congested as cars backed up waiting to cross into Broomfield (and thereafter onto the A406 I assume). Then Broomfield Avenue and nearby became an LTN. Two decades on, and pre Fox Lane LTN, that picture of use had changed dramatically, as I assume over time will the current local position.
Finite space combined with bigger, faster, more expensive cars combined with a seeming never satisfiable desire to drive or get a “return” from the investment, gives an immense strategic dilemma where something (someone) must give. I have never seen a “perfect” solution but always wait to see. In the meantime, I was interested a press article from the states I came across last week. I’ve copied the final section and a link to it all. More generally I would suggest there will be no change without change.
When Telegadis first opened an e-bike consulting business in Pennsylvania in 2016, many customers were driven by recreation or physical rehabilitation. But he's always believed e-bikes could transform the daily commute, and says the majority of customers now see it, too. A typical first question: Which model has enough battery power to cover a trip to work and back?
The test drive usually takes care of the rest, he says.
“They come to us. They’re sitting in traffic, there’s no parking where they go, they’re miserable in the car,” Telegadis said. “They get on a bike, they ride it … and that’s the epiphany.”
Source:
eu.usatoday.com/story/news/2022/11/12/electric-e-bikes-climate-change/8258994001/