Safer Streets win for Mitcham Lane

Residents living near Mitcham Lane in Tooting are pleased and relieved with the approval of the changes made early in 2023 to "Make Mitcham Lane Safe for All". Jon Irwin, local Lib Dem, gathered around 500 signatures on a petition to the Council 11 years ago asking for action to be taken.

He commented, "I'm delighted that we've finally seen some tangible progress. I understand the frustrations that people have expressed about the engagement process and the concerns raised by those who opposed the changes.”

In the report that went before the transport committee, average speeds from motor traffic have reduced and the numbers of people choosing to cycle along Mitcham Lane have grown significantly. 

Resident concerns

However, there was a group of residents who spoke against the changes at the committee, calling into question the process and raising concerns about speeding motor traffic and the lack of a wider safe cycle network. 

Jon added, “I hope that we'll be able to continue to work together as a community to push for safer streets. Here's to hoping further improvements won't take another 11 years and that the council will sensitively take on-board all views from the community."