Commuters, local residents and businesses in Farringdon have overwhelmingly voted for a traffic-free pedestrian zone in the area outside the station on Cowcross Street, EC1.
The proposals - including raising and paving the road to create a shared space for cyclists and pedestrians - will be presented to South Area Committee tonight, 16 November.
Islington Council consulted in September and October 2006 on plans for improving the station area. Cowcross Street is heavily used by people living and working nearby, tourists visiting some of London's famous attractions, and in the evenings by those using the bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants.
The scheme would be carried out in two phases. The first in 2006/07 involves the pedestrian area outside the station where five parking bays will be removed. Phase two in 2007/08 would involve the pavements between the station and Farringdon Road and five parking bays being removed.
Vehicle access would still be allowed to shops and properties but restricted to off-peak hours. Access to both NCP car parks would be unaffected.
Cllr Lucy Watt, Executive Member for Environment said:
"Farringdon Station is the second busiest in the borough with 19 million users a year.
"Improving the street environment on Cowcross Street will make a big difference to the 52,000 people who use it each day and the many pedestrians who will be able to enjoy a more pleasant and less cluttered public space.
The new Farringdon Thameslink Station is due to open within the next four years - we want to make sure street improvements are in place in good time."
ENDS
Page Last Updated: 29 July 2008