Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the project about?
The main aim of the project is to reduce collisions resulting in personal injuries to drivers, passengers, pedestrians and cyclists along Walworth Road.Walworth Road has a relatively high number of road casualties (250 over three years) and the aim is to reduce the casualty rate by at least the national and regional targets.
Is it about more than road safety?Yes, another key aim of the project is to address a number of other issues for the community, including traffic congestion, pedestrian pressures and fear of crime.
What will be done?Consultants are drawing up final detail designs that will need approval from Transport for London's network management. The project includes improved pedestrian crossing points, wider footways and reduced street furniture clutter. Lighting will be enhanced to improve road safety, personal security and encourage nighttime travel. Improvements will be seen in the road, footpaths, streetlights, guard rails, traffic signals, directional signage, seats, rubbish bins, cycle stands, planting and any other relevant infrastructure within the road reserve.
How long will it take?
The project was launched in November 2003. The project has undergone extensive consultation during 18 months and is not expected to finish until March 2008.
When will we see physical improvements on the road?
The council intends to undertake works improvements in August, September 2006 dependant on Transport for London's approval.
Has it been done anywhere else?
Walworth Road has unique characteristics in terms of traffic, location and community and the size of the grant makes this project different to most other road safety projects. Mixed Priority Route Road Safety scheme began last year, when five local authorities received grants for similar projects. An additional five projects commenced in the previous year. These projects are now completed, and the council is able to learn from those projects. While there are numerous minor road safety projects around the borough, the council has never undertaken such a comprehensive road safety project.
Who will decide what happens?
The project is led by a Project Board, comprised of the executive member for transport and environment councillors from the three wards in the study area, key council officers, representatives from funding agencies and several community representatives.With such a large amount of money being spent, it is important to have a clear and accountable group making the decisions.
What will it cost?
The Council has been awarded a £1 million grant by the Department for Transport, as a Mixed Priority Route Road Safety Demonstration Project. This money will be topped up by further funds from Transport for London, with £740,000 committed so far and an additional £1 million from Southwark's capital.
Who can I talk to about the project?
Contact details are available below.
What about other projects going on around it?
The project ties in with a number of other council and interagency projects in the area, such as the  Elephant and Castle regeneration project. Wherever possible, the council will be working with these other projects to ensure efforts are coordinated.
Where is Walworth Road?
Walworth Road is an arterial road just south of Elephant and Castle. The study extends 1.2km along the Walworth Road shopping centre (including the northern portion of Camberwell Road) from Heygate Street to Albany Road.
How much traffic uses Walworth Road?
The average daily traffic flow is more than 20,000 vehicles, and up to 80 buses an hour use the corridor in each direction. The road is classified as an urban distributor road and forms part of the London Bus Priority Network.
What is the area like?
Walworth Road is a thriving shopping area, with many high-street multiple stores trading there, supplemented by the East Street market. The road provides the densely populated communities to the east and west of the corridor with a wide variety of shops and services within walking distance and also provides good transport links.
How do I have my say?
A widespread consultation programme is under way. Please contact the number below for further information.
Contact usAlexis Bielich
Traffic Engineer
Tel: 020 7525 2179
walworth.project@southwark.gov.uk
Highway infrastructure group
Old Town Hall
151 Walworth Road
London
SE17 1RY
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