A consultation on road closures that seek to encourage cycling and walking in Harrow has been extended due to “technical problems”.

Harrow Council confirmed that its consultation on low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) will run until 11.59pm tonight (Tuesday, March 23).

The period was initially scheduled to end on Sunday (March 21) but issues with the council’s website and feedback forms meant it was pushed back by 48 hours.

LTNs were introduced into parts of Harrow last year under the council’s ‘Streetspace’ programme, which sought to improve walking and cycling routes, while also reducing traffic along residential streets, as part of a plan to improve active travel in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Their effectiveness has been consistently debated – many have argued they are an essential way of tackling transport issues, while others believe they cause more issues than they seek to solve.

It has since proposed automatic number plate recognition cameras replace physical planters at these sites to create ‘virtual LTNs’, which would “allow all homes to remain accessible and eligible residents and businesses with permits to drive throughout the neighbourhood”.

Harrow councillors have urged as many people as possible to get involved with the consultation, noting public opinion “matters most” and will influence any future decision on the schemes.

There is also a consultation on the other aspects of the ‘Streetspace’ programme – pop-up cycle lanes and additional safety measures near some schools – which runs until March 31.

The findings of both consultations will be presented, alongside data reports, at a special council traffic and road safety advisory panel meeting in April.

Visit www.harrow.gov.uk/ltn and harrowstreetspacetrials.commonplace.is/overview to have your say.