Court Blocks Plan to Remove East London Low Traffic Zones

A High Court ruling has blocked plans to remove three low traffic neighbourhood schemes in east London, with campaigners welcoming the decision as a win for residents and safer streets. The judgment found it would be unlawful for Tower Hamlets Council to dismantle the schemes without proper consultation, after a legal challenge brought by a local campaign group. The low traffic zones, located around Columbia Road, Arnold Circus and Old Bethnal Green Road, were introduced to reduce through traffic in residential areas using cameras, planters and controlled access points. They have remained in place while the case progressed and will now stay following the ruling. The decision has drawn strong reactions across London, with supporters arguing the schemes have helped calm streets, improve safety and encourage walking and cycling in densely populated neighbourhoods.

In its judgment, the court said Tower Hamlets Council failed to meet its legal duties when attempting to remove the schemes, including not properly considering its own local transport implementation plan. Campaigners said thousands of residents would feel relieved by the outcome, noting that public attitudes have shifted since the schemes were first introduced. They argue that low traffic zones deliver health and safety benefits at a time when communities face economic pressure and rising living costs. Transport bodies and city leaders also welcomed the clarity provided by the ruling, saying it underlines the importance of boroughs following agreed transport strategies when altering schemes funded to support safer and more sustainable travel. The judgment adds to a growing body of case law shaping how traffic reduction measures can be introduced or removed across the capital.

Tower Hamlets Council said it was disappointed with the outcome and plans to seek permission to appeal to the Supreme Court, arguing the ruling could have wider implications for councils across London. The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, described the decision as good news for residents, citing benefits for road safety, air quality and healthier neighbourhoods. Transport authorities also said the ruling reinforces the role of traffic reduction schemes in delivering safer streets and supporting active travel. As legal options are explored, the disputed low traffic zones will remain in place, with the case likely to influence future decisions by local authorities balancing community concerns, environmental goals and transport policy in urban areas.