In much of the country, the topic of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) induces heated local debate, strongly worded Facebook posts, and occasionally reported cases of arson.
But in De Beauvoir a group of residents and cyclists are campaigning to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the neighbourhood’s much-loved LTN with a commemorative bench and plaque.
The traffic filtering system, which runs through Northchurch Terrace, Culford Road and Lawford Road, is believed to be the first in Hackney and will have been in place for half a century on 8 April.
It was fist established after a lengthy campaign—which comprised several demonstrations and well-attended consultations throughout the early ‘70s—that was orchestrated by locals concerned with dangerous through traffic.
Now, Living Streets Hackney is driving calls for a commemoration with support from the De Beauvoir Association (DBA), a long-running community organisation that was involved in the formation of the LTN 50 years ago.
Kate McFarlane, Chair of the DBA, said:
“This is in the very early days of planning and we are consulting with the community for their comments and suggestions. We are grateful to Living Streets for coming up with this idea and there is a lot of support already for a commemorative bench to be sited somewhere.”
The move also has the support of the Hackney Cyclist, one of the borough’s most prominent pro-cycling campaign groups.
Garmon ap Garth, a coordinator at the organisation, said: “I think a commemorative plaque is a great idea. The De Beauvoir LTN has made the area quiet, nice and safe place not only to cycle, but also to generally be in.”
