Image: Studio Weave and Tom Stuart-Smith
The City of London Corporation has launched a public consultation on proposed improvements to Bank Junction, including the creation of a new walking and cycling only area.
The All Change at Bank scheme is designed to provide space for transformative public realm enhancements and improve street safety, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists.
It has been scheduled to coincide with the re-opening of the improved Bank station in late 2022.
The proposed improvements include:
- The closure of Threadneedle Street for motor vehicles between Bank Junction and Bartholomew Lane in both directions to create a walking and cycling only area
- The closure of Queen Victoria Street between Bucklersbury and Bank Junction for motor vehicles, except those vehicles exiting Walbrook in a westbound direction
- Keeping Princes Street open for only buses and cycles northbound, and in addition as a route for servicing to Cornhill in a southbound direction
- Widening pavements around the junction to accommodate the large number of people who walk through the area normally
The City Corporation says it considered dozens of potential options and the proposal now out for consultation was deemed the most practical – while also offering the most substantial benefits for residents, workers and visitors.
Alastair Moss, chair of the planning and transportation committee, said: “Bank Junction has already undergone transformative change, from a busy and dangerous intersection to a safer and more pleasant environment for all.
“This proposal further builds upon those changes to continue the progression toward creating a world-class welcoming heart of the Square Mile.
“By making subtle changes to just a few of the arms of the junction, we will ensure the streets are even safer for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as being able to provide welcome improvements to the public realm in this busy part of the city.”
The public consultation on the proposed changes launched on 29 March and will run for six weeks.
30 March 2021