Camden High Street Pedestrianisation Trial Sparks Mixed Reactions
An 18-month trial aims to transform the area into a vehicle-free zone
The area between Parkway/Kentish Town Road and Jamestown Road/Hawley Crescent has been cordoned off by Camden Council as part of an 18-month pedestrianisation trial.
Backed by £630,000 from the Mayor’s Air Quality Fund and TfL, the scheme aims to reduce overcrowding, cut pollution, and prioritise walking.
During the trial, several northbound bus routes are being diverted away from Camden High Street.
Buses will now travel via Kentish Town Road and Hawley Crescent before re-joining the high street, with no additional stops along the diversion.
Southbound routes remain unchanged.
A contraflow cycle lane has also been introduced.
The trial began on Saturday 3 May 2025.
Why is Camden pedestrianising?
Councillor Adam Harrison, a key figure behind the plans, said the trial aims to enhance safety in one of London’s busiest areas and improve Camden's image.
"Camden High Street is the first impression for many visitors," he said.
"At peak times, it’s overcrowded and often unsafe. This trial is about making it safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable."
Council data shows the high street sees up to 40,000 pedestrians at busy times.
Timeline of the Trial
January – April 2025: Preparation Phase
3-5 May 2025: Trial Starts with Street Party
May 2025 – May 2026: Monitoring and Evaluations
Summer 2026: Second Public Consultation
End of 2026: Decision on Permanence
Camden 'Big 60' Event
Thousands gathered on 5 May 2025, for the 'Camden at 60: The Big Street Party'.
It was a community celebration marking 60 years of the borough, 80 years since VE Day, and the launch of the High Street pedestrianisation trial.
The event featured live music, global street food, family-friendly activities, and cultural exhibitions, highlighting Camden’s rich heritage and creative energy.
The Museum of Youth Culture showcased an installation at the 'Big 60' ahead of its permanent Camden opening in October 2025.
Arts manager Mike Patrique called pedestrianisation "a great step for Camden," reflecting the area’s "creative spirit."
Public Opinion
Camden Council’s public consultation drew 1,149 responses from locals, businesses, visitors, transport groups, and accessibility advocates, with 70% backing motor vehicle restrictions on Camden High Street.
John Aden, who grew up in Camden, was one of the people surveyed. He said: "Pedestrianisation makes it feel more like a community space, which is good. I remember Camden for drugs and violence, so I hope this helps."
Poll created on StawPoll by Hannah Badawi-Crook.
The Lord Mayor Samata Khatoon supports the trial.
The Lord Mayor Samata Khatoon supports the trial.
Georgie Young a local expressed support for the changes.
Georgie Young a local expressed support for the changes.
Concerns from Businesses
While some support pedestrianisation, others, in particular local businesses', have raised concerns.
Miriam, manager of Rokit, expressed doubts: "There are problems with drugs and alcohol. The homelessness issue has worsened, and this will worsen it."
She warned the changes could make policing harder and create more space for crime.
"It’s great for tourism, but we already have a busy high street,” she said. "I doubt very much the council truly considered what businesses think."
Miriam also noted operational challenges: "It makes deliveries difficult. If we need maintenance work done, if we need big apparatus to be taken into the store, or ladders and things like this, we now have to walk a long way."
Vanessa, from a nearby food stall, expressed concern that delivery restrictions could hurt trade: "We care about Camden, but how will we get our food deliveries through?"
The council said it’s monitoring business impacts and open to adjustments.
Miriam: "trials often become permanent".
Miriam: "trials often become permanent".
Shops on the high-street.
Shops on the high-street.
Police survey the area.
Police survey the area.
Vanessa, centre, shares her thoughts while working her shift at Bubblewaffles in Camden.
Vanessa, centre, shares her thoughts while working her shift at Bubblewaffles in Camden.
Accessibility Issues Raised
Camden Tube station offers step-free access and lifts, providing theoretical accessibility for disabled people using public transport.
Still, ease of access remains a concern.
Naima, a local, said her mother, who uses a wheelchair, can no longer visit the area independently due to the changes.
"She used to come by car to run errands and see friends. Now, she can’t come at all. It’s really upsetting."
She added that while public transport is inclusive in theory, the tube and surrounding streets are often too overcrowded to navigate safely.
In response to concerns, the council has introduced two Blue Badge bays on a nearby street and, according to a report on its website, is "exploring further measures."
What’s Next?
Camden Council will continue monitoring the trial, gathering data and feedback.
For now, the changes remain a test, welcomed by some, questioned by others. As Camden adjusts to its walking-first high street.
A TikTok posted on @HannahTalksPolitics on #Camden Pedestrianising with over 5000 views.
A TikTok posted on @HannahTalksPolitics on #Camden Pedestrianising with over 5000 views.
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