Central London is set for a transformative upgrade that will make streets safer and more accessible for cyclists and pedestrians, with Camden Council unveiling ambitious plans for the Holborn area.
Major Transport Overhaul for Holborn District
The Holborn Liveable Neighbourhood scheme represents a significant step forward in London's commitment to sustainable travel, building on Transport for London's existing progress this year. TfL has already introduced 51 kilometres of new cycle lanes and installed over 1,600 bike parking spaces across the city in 2025 alone.
Camden's project will focus on an extensive network of streets including Bedford Place, Bloomsbury Way, Great Ormond Street, High Holborn, Kingsway, New Oxford Street, and Southampton Row. The comprehensive approach has been praised by cycling advocates as a game-changer for central London transport.
Key Proposals and Street Transformations
The London Cycling Campaign, a charity dedicated to making cycling safer and more accessible in the capital, described the plans as 'mind-blowingly good' in their November 7 social media endorsement.
Central elements of the proposals include:
- Great Russell Street: Potential full pedestrianisation between Museum Street and Montague Street to create vibrant public spaces with seating areas that support local businesses
- Great Ormond Street: Proposed conversion to one-way westbound traffic with widened pavements to prioritise pedestrian movement
- New Oxford Street: Addition of trees, plants and seating with two distinct paths - a direct route and a winding path to enjoy the greenery
The 'Healthy Hospital Street' initiative centred on Great Ormond Street represents a particularly innovative approach, aiming to establish a calmer, more welcoming street environment specifically designed to benefit hospital visitors, patients and staff.
Environmental Benefits and Future Impact
These modifications are expected to deliver substantial environmental benefits, including improved air quality, increased urban greenery, and enhanced accessibility for all road users. The project builds on previously completed 'STARter' initiatives that addressed junction safety at Gray's Inn Road, Theobalds Road, and Clerkenwell Road.
If fully implemented, the Holborn Liveable Neighbourhood project could significantly strengthen London's reputation as a globally leading cycling city while promoting sustainable travel modes in one of its busiest central districts. The initiative represents a crucial step toward creating more people-friendly urban spaces that prioritise active travel over vehicle traffic.
