Work expected to start next year after positive public consultation

The much-maligned Archway gyratory now looks certain to be ripped up.

A scheme to get rid off the unpopular one-way system and replace it with two-way traffic, pedestrian areas and cycle lanes was put to public consultation by Transport for London (TfL) last year.

Most of 1,028 people who responded were in favour, TfL said yesterday, and work on the project is expected to start in 2016.

When the plan, part of TfL’s £4billion road improvements scheme, is complete cars will drive round three sides of the central island with the fourth side – next to the station – closed to vehicles creating a new, open public space and a more accessible town centre.

Kate Calvert, from the Better Archway Forum, said: “It’s good news that it’s happening, and this is the best version we have seen, but it’s disappointing they have failed to take into account the falling levels of traffic on the A1, which would have enabled them to include a right hand turn from St John’s Way.”

Following comments made during the consultation TfL says it is considering a segregated route for southbound cyclists from Highgate Hill, improving the northbound cycling route when leaving the new public space and a northbound segregated cycle track from St John’s Way.

A spokesman said; “We will work with Islington Council to agree a final design, before seeking relevant approvals.

“We will publish details of the final scheme on our website and update all those who responded to the consultation and who provided contact details.

“We will also undertake further consultation for changes to bus services necessary to deliver improvements at Archway.

“Subject to approval, construction is anticipated to start in March 2016 and is expected to take approximately 12 months to complete.”

Kevin O’Leary, Islington Council’s corporate director for environment and regeneration said, “The council and the local community have long campaigned for improvements to be made to Archway gyratory and we are pleased this is now moving forward in order to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclist. The creation of a new public open space will help with the areas wider regeneration creating jobs and new employment opportunities for our residents.

“Together with TfL we’ve asked local people for their thoughts on the proposals and to suggest improvements.

“Councillors, council colleagues and I will make sure the views and points raised are given careful consideration by TfL in their plans for the next stage.”