Hertford Road low traffic neighbourhood

In 2020, we introduced a trial traffic filter in Hertford Road to:

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

The traffic filter uses 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 filter was introduced shows that: 

• following the introduction of the Hertford Road traffic filter, traffic reduced on nearby Downham Road. This is thought to be attributable to the introduction of a nearby low traffic neighbourhood in Islington.
• air quality improved at the two nearest monitoring sites at Hackney New School, however there are no air quality monitors on Hertford Road. The nearest monitoring sites are below the national air quality objective for nitrogen dioxide of 40μg/m3.

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 Hertford Road traffic filter. 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 detailed decision document and other documents:

• Signed delegated powers decision (PDF 8.9mb)
• Appendix

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.

• 378 responses were received on our Commonplace page
• 35% of respondents who provided a postcode were from the local area (N1)
• Overall, 43% of responses said the filter should be made permanent, and 57% said the filter should not be made permanent 
• In the local area (N1), 57% said the filter should be made permanent. 42% said it should not. 
• Among non-motorists, who make up 70% of Hackney households, 69% 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. 

We are continuing to listen to feedback about the scheme.

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