A low-traffic neighborhood (LTN) initiative in south London has been ordered to be dismantled immediately by the High Court.
In May, Lambeth Council was informed that the implementation of the LTN in West Dulwich was unlawful, and their request to appeal this ruling has been rejected.
The purpose of LTNs is to decrease vehicle traffic in residential locations through measures such as cameras, planters, or lockable bollards.
The West Dulwich Action Group (WDAG), which initiated the legal action, referred to the ruling as “a wake-up call for councils nationwide,” while advocates like Better Streets Dulwich argued that the LTN enhanced safety for both pedestrians and cyclists.
Additionally, Lambeth Council is required to cover £35,000 of the legal expenses incurred by WDAG.
The action group is now pressing for clarity regarding the funds generated from fines levied on drivers who violated LTN regulations—specifically, whether the over £1 million collected in penalty notices will be reimbursed.
A spokesperson for WDAG stated that the organization has urged Lambeth Council to confirm whether refunds will be issued.
“This issue extends beyond legality; it’s about equity and the trust of the public. If the law was violated, the funds should be returned,” they said.
“This case should never have entered the courtroom; it was something that could have been settled through proper and respectful conversations. Instead, Lambeth opted for legal battles over listening to the community, and now the public is paying the price.”
In response to the judgment, Andrew Hanson from Better Streets West Dulwich expressed his disappointment.
He remarked, “We fully support efforts to enhance safety in our area.”
Mr. Hanson noted that the ruling seemed based on “narrow grounds” and a “relatively minor issue,” which he hopes the council can address to reimplement the LTN.
He emphasized how the LTN has made the neighborhood “far safer for children, pedestrians, and cyclists.”
He added, “It fosters a greater sense of community—having fewer than 200 cars passing by your front door makes it much easier to connect with your neighbors.”
Mr. Hanson pointed out that the roads included in the LTN were not designed to accommodate such high traffic volumes.
He concluded, “Honestly, I believe the LTN was functioning quite well. It’s unfortunate that a small yet vocal group has managed to create enough discontent to lead us to this point.”
In a statement regarding the ruling, Lambeth Council affirmed its commitment to enhancing safety on the roads for those most vulnerable and to making the streets more inviting and community-oriented.
The council stated, “The High Court has mandated the removal of the street improvements in West Dulwich. No more fines will be issued, and we will dismantle the scheme as soon as conditions permit.”
