Hackney Central low traffic neighbourhood

In 2020, we introduced trial traffic filters in Wayland Avenue and Marcon Place to:

• create cleaner, quieter streets
• support people to walk, shop and cycle
• rebuild a greener after the pandemic

The traffic filters use planters in the road to restrict through traffic – allowing only cyclists, waste and emergency vehicles to pass through.

Traffic and air quality analysis

Analysis of traffic and air quality data since the filters were introduced shows that: 

• Following the introduction of the traffic filters on Wayland Avenue and Marcon Place, there was an 11% reduction in traffic on roads around the filters. On boundary roads around the filters, there was a 24% increase in traffic.
• While there are no air quality monitors on Wayland Place or Marcon Avenue, nitrogen dioxide levels have reduced in nearby locations.

We have also carried out a comprehensive equalities impact assessment, looking at the impact of low traffic neighbourhoods on groups with protected characteristics, such as race, gender or disability.

Making the low traffic neighbourhood permanent

After considering the comments made by residents, alongside the traffic data, we have made the decision to retain the traffic filters in Marcon Place and Wayland Avenue. We will continue to monitor the effects of the filter and listen to feedback about the scheme. You can email comments to: streetscene.enquiries@hackney.gov.uk.

View the full decision report, engagement report and equalities impact assessment:

• delegated powers decision report (PDF 18.3mb)

Commonplace responses

Throughout the trial, we encouraged people to respond to our Commonplace page, which was used to identify issues with the LTN and make changes where appropriate.

• 457 responses were received on our Commonplace page
• Overall, 50% of responses said the filters should be made permanent, and 48% said the filters should not be made permanent 
• In the local area (E8), 57% said the filter should be made permanent. 40% said it should not. 
• Among non-motorists, who make up 70% of Hackney households, 72% say the measures should be made permanent. 

The top two concerns raised in resident responses were increased traffic and air pollution, which is why the Council has completed monitoring of the scheme before making a decision on whether or not to make it permanent.

Full traffic data from the area 

The table below compares traffic counts taken in 2021 with the last available comparable count. 

Monitored NO2 annual mean concentrations at representative locations to ATCs within the Wayland Avenue LTN

We are continuing to listen to feedback about the scheme.

You can email streetscene.enquiries@hackney.gov.uk with any comments.