The million pound improvement scheme that's making Bedford Hill safer and greener

Bedford Hill is currently in the second phase of a one million pound improvement scheme that will look to make the area more safe and green.

The first phase was completed earlier this year, seeing a number of safety measures introduced, as well as new granite paving and more trees and shrubs.

In addition to this, pedestrian safety was enhanced with the construction of traffic calming entry treatments at its junctions with Haberson Road, Shipka Shipka Road, Sistova Road and Rossiter Road, while additional cycle parking was introduced with unnecessary street furniture and clutter removed.

The current phase involves an upgrade of its junction with Balham Station Road and Fernlea Road, namely a wider pavement and an additional pedestrian crossing facility by the rail bridge to improve pedestrian access and improve safety.

It includes an upgrade of the traffic signal controlled junction of Bedford Hill, Balham Station Road and Fernlea Road, to improve pedestrian access and safety.

While the works are underway traffic flows are being managed by temporary signals which were re-timed this week to reduce delays. The permanent signals are expected to be commissioned by the middle of next month.

The granite paving used in phase one is also being used through the junction up to the railway bridge and also extending in front of the shops and businesses on Fernlea Road. The carriageway will then be resurfaced.

The remainder of the pavement upgrade is scheduled for completion in March, weather permitting.

The £1m project was shaped by a detailed public consultation carried out in 2018 and has been paid for using cash delivered via the Wandsworth Local Fund – a levy on property developers that's used to fund improvements to the local area's infrastructure.

Transport spokesman for John Locker said: "This entire refurbishment scheme has been shaped and inspired by the views of local people and businesses in the area who took part in our consultation.

"They told us they wanted the area smartened up to make it more attractive and boost local trade. We listened very carefully, secured the funding and have been getting on with the job of making a really positive difference to the look and feel of this important commercial and residential neighbourhood.

"And of course a key element of the project has been to make the area much safer for pedestrians."

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