a40 Cycle Superhighway rumoured for chop, but TfL deny decision made

Reports have emerged that London Mayor Sadiq Khan is likely to axe plans to create a 4.5 mile long Westway Cycle Superhighway on the A40, something which Transport for London has this morning denied.

Jonathon Edwards of Transport for London said: “Transport for London is still analysing the consultation responses on extending the East West Superhighway via the Westway and absolutely no decisions have been made.”

“Sadiq has pledged to continue the Cycle Superhighway Programme, investigating new routes and learning the lessons from earlier schemes, with a focus on segregated provision where appropriate.”

Connecting Paddington and Acton, the proposal gained 71% public backing in a Transport for London consultation, but the Standard suggests that the shopping centre, which opened only in 2011, has cited adverse affect on motor traffic as a reason for halting the infrastructure. As you’ll see on a newly launched cycling advocacy resource, a decline in business due to cycle path installation is a common myth, in fact, the opposite is true.

The proposed route initially came to fruition as a result of Kensington and Chelsea council’s refusal to allow a cycle superhighway to run along Kensington High Street.

Sadiq Khan pledged prior to the election to triple cycling provision in London.

In a press release issued today, Khan has said he is committed to learning from previous schemes and improving the consultation process as he creates schemes that benefit pedestrian safety and improve public space, as well as protecting and encouraging cyclists.

In another early surprise of Khan’s mayoralty, the controversial Garden Bridge, which estimates say will cost around £175 million has been given the thumbs up, subject to a few new conditions on access.

The first completed consultations that the Mayor will be considering are:

• North South Superhighway Phase 2 – a 1.5 mile extension from Stonecutter Street to Kings Cross that would complete a continuous cycle route from Elephant and Castle to Kings Cross
• East West Superhighway Phase 2 – a 4.5 mile extension from Paddington to Acton, via the Westway, that would create a continuous segregated cycle route from Barking to Acton, through the heart of central London (mentioned here)
• CS11 – From Swiss Cottage to West End (Portland Place) – a 2.5 mile route from Swiss Cottage to Portland Place, providing a continuous, safe route through Regents Park to the West End
• Hammersmith gyratory better junction – creating a safer and more direct cycle route through Hammersmith town centre
• Highbury Corner better junction – removing the one-way system to create a more pleasant and accessible area for all users, with improved facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.