The London borough of Hackney is set to ban most vehicles from most of its roads in what it says is ‘the country’s most ambitious plan’ for Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) so far.
The council is set to put three quarters of its streets into LTNs in a bid to tackle air pollution.
However, LTNs have proved controversial in several parts of the country.
In Hackney’s neighbouring borough Tower Hamlets mayor Lutfur Rahman has put an end to several traffic-calming schemes and is consulting on removing others.
In Oxford residents have removed signs saying roads were closed to traffic in what has been dubbed a ‘civil war’ against the measures.
Hackney mayor Philip Glanville said the council’s Three Year Local Implementation Plan would see the area having the most car restrictions, public electric vehicle chargers and cycle parking in the capital.
He said: ‘This is the most ambitious plan in London, if not the most ambitious in the country, building on an incredible track record in this borough.’
However, opponents claim the road blocks move traffic from wealthier streets into neighbouring areas.
Residents group Hackney Together said: ‘There is no justification for safer, quieter roads for some at others’ expense.’
