Blackfriars Road pelican crossing to be removed due to 'lack of demand'

We reported in February that TfL had launched a month-long consultation on its plan to reduce the number of pedestrian crossings in Blackfriars Road by eliminating the lights at the crossing near Valentine Place.

This is part of a London-wide programme of traffic light removal to meet the Mayor of London's 'smoothing traffic flow' agenda.

TfL says that the pelican crossing was selected for removal "because urban traffic control data indicated very low demand levels".

"After a full consideration of all stakeholder feedback, TfL have decided to remove the signals and retain the central island to function as an uncontrolled crossing," said TfL in a letter circulated to 'stakeholders' last week.

"Decommissioning work is expected to commence in the next 2-3 weeks."

Local politicians, including Val Shawcross (Labour London Assembly member for Lambeth and Southwark), have been outspoken in their opposition to the Mayor's plans to reduce the number of traffic lights and controlled crossings.

• Val Shawcross would like to know what local residents think of TfL's Blackfriars Road proposal – have your say in our forum.