Traffic will go in both directions on Stratford Broadway – the first significant change in the transformation of the town centre.
As of Monday 17 September the first phase of the switch in traffic from one-way to two-way will go live. The landmark transformation works – which will eventually see the whole one way system replaced - have been carried out by Newham Council in partnership with Transport for London following consultation with residents and local businesses.
New road crossings and signals are in place for both pedestrians and cyclists, places where people have indicated they would prefer to cross.
In addition to the two way traffic, pavements have also been widened and trees planted. Vibrant lighting and artwork has also been installed to make the whole centre more attractive to residents and visitors to the borough.
The work also includes major upgrades to Cycle Superhighway 2, with new segregated cycle lanes along all sides of the former gyratory system, including on the Broadway and Great Eastern Road. There will also be new signalised cycle crossings at Angel Lane/Great Eastern Road and The Grove/Romford Road, as well as bus stop bypasses along the route. These will significantly reduce road danger by keeping cyclists separated from motor traffic.
Work started in September last year and the whole project is expected to be complete by Spring 2019. The work has been carried out in stages so the town centre could be accessed at all times.
The second phase in switching traffic is expected later this year and will see the whole of Great Eastern Road and The Grove going two-way.
Contractor JB Riney has been managing the works, liaising closely with residents and businesses throughout.
Councillor Rachel Tripp, Cabinet member for the environment and highways, said: “I am happy to see this historic change to Stratford Town Centre take shape. The one-way system was frustrating for many residents and this change will make it easier and safer for pedestrians and cyclists to make their way around Stratford and reduce collisions.
“Stratford is a key player in the regeneration of East London and this work will also help integrate the town centre with the rest of E15. The Broadway already looks brighter and greener, complementing the diverse range of businesses located here. With more and more visitors – both local and from further afield – drawn to the area for its exciting shops, markets and other cultural attractions, it is important that they are kept safe on our streets, particularly when they are choosing to walk or cycle.”
Penny Rees, TfL’s Head of Network Sponsorship, said: “Schemes such as the transformation of Stratford Town Centre are a vital part of our bold plans to reduce road danger, improve air quality and create healthy streets right across the capital. The new pedestrian crossings and cycle lanes will help to protect the most vulnerable road users and are an important step towards our Vision Zero goal of nobody killed or seriously injured on London’s streets. We’ll continue to work closely with Newham Council to make Stratford Town Centre a safer and even more vibrant destination for both visitors and residents alike.”
Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: “The change to two-way traffic at Stratford Broadway is the first phase of transformation of this dangerous gyratory. It will improve life for residents and businesses, and make an immediate difference to cyclists and pedestrians who use the area. Future improvements such as creating new crossings and adding segregated cycle tracks will reduce road danger and enable more Londoners to walk or cycle - improving our health and tackling air pollution.”