Image: TfL
Transport for London (TfL) is inviting Londoners to provide their views on transformative proposals designed to make walking and cycling in Shoreditch safer, easier and more accessible. The consultation remains open until 12 September.
The latest plans focus on enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety at some of London’s most hazardous junctions. Key upgrades include the installation of high-quality pedestrian and cycle crossings, expanded footways, and the development of new segregated cycle lanes—part of a broader commitment to encouraging sustainable travel and reducing road danger in the capital.
According to TfL data, the junction of Great Eastern Street, Shoreditch High Street and Commercial Street recorded 23 collisions between February 2022 and January 2025, resulting in 27 injuries. These figures underline the urgent need for infrastructure improvements in this heavily trafficked area.
Key proposals include:
- Widened pedestrian crossings at the key intersection of Shoreditch High Street, Great Eastern Street and Commercial Street.
- Removal of the left-turn slip road from Shoreditch High Street into Commercial Street, replaced with a straight crossing and extended footway space.
- New pedestrian crossing on the south side of Shoreditch High Street at the Holywell Lane and Bethnal Green Road junction.
- New southbound cycle lane between Rivington Street and Commercial Street along Shoreditch High Street.
- Left turn ban from Shoreditch High Street into Bethnal Green Road, with exemptions for buses.
- Cycle priority gates for cyclists travelling both northbound and southbound at key junctions to enhance safety and reduce conflicts with motor traffic.
- Timed vehicle restrictions on Holywell Lane, allowing only buses and loading between 10am–4pm.
TfL has also confirmed it will move forward with safety enhancements at the Great Eastern Street and Curtain Road junction, based on a previous consultation. Planned upgrades here include a redesigned layout, widened pavements, a toucan crossing, new pedestrian crossings, and banned left turns to simplify vehicle movements and prioritise vulnerable road users.
Will Norman, London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, commented:
“Making London’s roads and junctions safer is a key priority for the Mayor. These new proposals represent a major step towards a safer, more accessible Shoreditch, and build on work already underway at the Curtain Road junction. I urge all Londoners to take part in the consultation and help shape a safer, healthier city.”
Helen Cansick, TfL’s Head of Healthy Streets Investment Planning, added:
“We’re committed to transforming some of London’s most dangerous junctions. These Shoreditch proposals will significantly improve the experience for people walking and cycling through this vibrant area. We welcome all feedback to ensure the final design meets the needs of the community.”
