Changes have been made to some of the contentious ‘Streetspace’ schemes in Harrow following concerns raised around access for emergency services.

Harrow Council confirmed some roadblocks, which form part of low-traffic neighbourhood (LTN) measures in Headstone South and Vaughan Road, would be altered to allow emergency vehicles to pass.

It is also removing part of a pop-up cycle lane in Honeypot Lane to allow easier access to Stanmore Fire Station.

The Streetspace programme, implemented using funding from Transport for London, allowed the council to make road changes to assist with the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic and encourage active travel.

It has been met with mixed reviews – while many appreciate the need to increase options for cycling and walking, there are concerns the changes have had a negative impact on traffic and public safety.

The Conservative Group in Harrow suggested the new measures have caused serious problems for emergency vehicles and has repeatedly called for the LTNs to be lifted.

Harrow Council said it agreed to alter two of the LTNs following consultations with emergency services and ward councillors.

Cllr Graham Henson, leader of Harrow Council, said: “Following recent conversations with the emergency services on the growing pressures they face with winter and the increasing infection rates for Covid-19 in Harrow, we have taken swift action to support their services by improving their access to the LTNs and Stanmore fire station.

“LTNs have a place in Harrow and we are committed to creating schemes that work for our residents and local communities.

“This is why we will be engaging directly with those residents living within LTNs and school streets in the new year inviting them to give their views on these changes and future proposals for the schemes.”

The council pointed out that access will only be granted to emergency vehicles and cyclists – ‘regular’ vehicles will be subject to enforcement action if they ignore the signage.

While other measures will remain in place, Cllr Henson added the council will continue to review the overall programme, with data and public opinion set to be presented at a traffic and road safety advisory panel next month.

He also urged residents to continue to give feedback via the Streetspace website.