Improving air quality and creating zero emission zones

The council plans to improve the environment for pedestrians and cyclists.

This means reducing carbon emissions; improving air quality and helping people to be more physically active – leading to healthier lives. The proposals include:

  • Future Cycle Route 12
    This is a proposed new route from Surrey Quays to Queens road which will improve the journey from Rotherhithe to Peckham.
  • Bird in Bush Park BMX track
    The council is consulting with local residents on refurbishing the BMX track. It could become a “pump” track for young learners helping them to make the transition to the larger track in Burgess Park.
  • Old Kent Road healthy streets plan
    The council is working with TfL on a plan to install segregated cycle lanes, wider footways and improved crossing points on Old Kent Road.
  • Car free developments
    All new developments in the Old Kent Road area are car-free for new residents (except for disabled drivers). Future residents will not be allowed to obtain on-street parking permits. Lots of cycle parking is provided and good access to local buses too. All new homes pay £2,700 towards more frequent bus services in the area.
  • School streets
    The School Streets Programme provides car-free drop-off and pick-up times at school entrances. This improves safety for pupils and improves air quality at the school entrances. In 2020, the council closed Bird in Bush Street, outside Camelot primary school, and introduced traffic restrictions on Friary Road at the pick-up and drop-off point outside St Francis school.
  • Railway bridge
    Public realm improvements around the railway bridge including public art and improved lighting.
  • Electric charging points and cycle hangers
    The council aims to install 1,000 cycle hangers and deliver 1,000 EV charging points across the borough by 2026.
  • Kentish Drovers
    The council plans to restore the listed Victorian mural on the old Kentish Drovers pub

The Impact

  • Up to 10,624 tonnes of CO2 emissions saved from transport sources by 2030
  • 2.57 km of cycle routes delivered
  • All new residential developments are car free

Read more about the Future Neighbourhoods Strategy

Future Neighbourhoods 2030 Map
Healthier streets for active travel
Under the Bridge art workshop
Car free drop-off and pick-up times at schools
Under the Bridge artwork by Nicola Hussein
The railway bridge will be improved with public art and lighting
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