main content Paving the way to a better Bromley

The beginning of a £1million, 3 year investment, improving access and 'street-scape' at the southern end of Bromley High Street will start later this month. The scheme is to upgrade the environment from the pedestrianised area to the station by widening and improving pavement areas, creating more space for waiting bus passengers while allowing free-flowing movement for those on foot as well as wheel-chairs and buggies. More flexible road space will be created by removing the existing planted central reservation. This will allow 24 hour bus lanes and improve journey times as well as reducing congestion in the High Street.

"These exciting improvements will make it easier for shoppers to walk along the High Street. We will be working hard to minimize disruption for shoppers and motorists. We are also liaising with local businesses and residents to make sure that everyone is kept informed about progress" said George Taylor, Executive Councillor for the Environment.

"One of our key aims is to ensure we have vibrant and thriving town centres in the borough. Central Bromley is a major focal point for commercial and leisure activity, and enhancing the southern section of the High Street will create a welcoming impression to the hundreds of people arriving at the Bromley South gateway" said Colin Bloom, Executive Councillor for the local economy.

Local businesses and residents have been consulted, as the project has developed. Their comments, such as the retention of a pelican crossing between The Glades and the newly redeveloped Mall, have been incorporated into the scheme, where possible. Generally, there has been positive reaction to the news of investment to upgrade this area and integrate it with the rest of the High Street.

Some elements of the overall scheme are:

• The creation of a kerb-level crossing area at the junction with Elmfield Road and Ethelbert Road
• A safer pedestrian crossing point at the High Street from Ethelbert Road as vehicles will no longer exit from Ethelbert Road. The road junction will also be raised which enable shoppers easier access to the pedestrianised area
• While trees and shrubs will be removed from the central reservation, creating a clearer eyeline, new planting will be used at the pavement edge, creating a welcoming 'boulevard style atmosphere
• A simplified pedestrian crossing, re-sited for more convenience

This is a phased project, dealing with the Elmfield Road area, the East and the West side of the non-pedestrianised High Street. The funding is provided by Transport for London (TFL) spread over the current and next three years. However the project will be managed and implemented by Bromley Council officers. Details of the project, including a visual impression, will be displayed in the area being revamped.

ENDS

Editors: For further information, please Andrew Rogers, Communications Advisor on 020 8461 7670 or email: andrew.Rogers@bromley.gov.uk.