Safety work due to start on hazardous road junction

Work is expected to start on making a dangerous crossing safer thanks to a four year campaign by a dedicated residents’ association.

Following two widely supported petitions and meetings with members of Parliament, including Glenda Jackson MP for Hampstead and Kilburn, members of Kensal Triangle Residents’ Association have been victorious in their fight to make the junction between the top of Ladbroke Grove and Harrow Road easier to cross. Work will start at the end of the month.

Hundreds of schoolchildren, parents with toddlers and elderly people are forced to run the gauntlet every day to get across the busy road.

Phil Davenport, member of Kensal Triangle Residents’ Association (KTRA), said: “I have used that crossing for 30 years but only two as a driver and as a driver that junction is a disaster. The right hand turn down Ladbrove Grove is diabolical.”

The three boroughs responsible for the treacherous stretch are Westminster, Brent and the Royal Borough of Kensington.

The local authorities, along with Transport for London (TfL), have agreed to widen the islands in each arm of the junction to make more room for people to stand when waiting to cross.

There will be a three month trial and if it works the structures will be made permanent.

A right filter light for traffic turning into Ladbroke Grove from Harrow Road will also be introduced.

Jay Venn, who has helped to lead the campaign, said: “KTRA will continue to press for further improvements to this dangerous intersection.

“It will not truly be safe until there is a pedestrian phase in the traffic light sequence.

“It is the only junction on the Harrow Road, between Harlesden and Edgware Road, that does not already have safe crossing facilities for pedestrians. Making this junction safer for pedestrians will also make it safer for drivers.”

What do you think? Do you think the changes will help? Email tara.brady@archant.co.uk