Archway gyratory in London could be given a radical new look – including segregated cycle routes and additional public space – under plans unveiled by the Mayor and Transport for London (TfL).
The £4 billion road modernisation plan, put together by TfL and Islington Council, would see the out of date gyratory replaced with two-way traffic lanes around three sides of the central island.
The fourth side would be closed off to traffic, creating a new, open public space at the heart of the town. Segregated cycle lanes, including a two-way cycle route past the station and improved pedestrian crossings would also be introduced, creating safer and direct routes through the area.
The new public space outside Archway Tube station would make it easier for people to access local businesses and help create an improved, more accessible town centre that would help attract further investment into the area. As part of this wider scheme, London Underground will also look to improve the ticketing hall of Archway station in the coming years to improve the customer experience within the station.
Subject to the outcome of consultation, construction could begin as early as 2016 and fully delivered during 2017.
Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: “The Archway gyratory is a notorious, badly designed relic of the 1960s, which residents, businesses and road users have long wanted overhauled. We have worked closely with Islington Council on these plans and with segregated cycle lanes and improved pedestrian crossings this ambitious scheme is set to give Archway the facelift it deserves.”
Leon Daniels, managing director of surface transport at TfL, added: “The Archway gyratory has been the bane of drivers, cyclists and bus passengers for many years. This scheme would bring the antiquated road layout into the 21st Century, creating a new public space to benefit local residents and businesses, as well as make it easier and safer for people to travel through the area.”
