Cars could be prohibited from Deptford High Street for up to eight hours a day under new proposals by Lewisham Council. The suggested plan would see the section of the bustling shopping area between New Cross Road and Hamilton Street closed to vehicles daily as part of a wider initiative to revitalise the space.
Currently, the high street is pedestrianised three days a week. The council is now consulting residents on whether they would prefer a daily closure from 10am to 5pm, 10am to 6pm, or 11am to 7pm. The initiative is aimed at encouraging more footfall and supporting local businesses.
The pedestrianisation is expected to make room for more street trading and outdoor seating for cafés and restaurants. Improvements would also include resurfacing pavements, installing more bicycle parking, and planting additional trees and flower beds to enhance the environment.
The plans also propose creating specific zones for buskers, along with installing new public seating and improving lighting under the nearby railway bridge. Vehicular access to Hales Street and Frankham Street would be restricted, with exceptions made for residents needing to reach their homes.
Residents are invited to share their views on the proposed changes until 14 May.
Cllr Louise Krupski, Deputy Mayor of Lewisham, said: “As we look to the future of town centres, we want to work with the community at every stage to make sure our improvements are designed by and for local people while ensuring no one is left behind.
“With over 60 per cent of Lewisham residents using public transport for commuting, and many walking or cycling as part of their daily routines, we’re focusing on making it easier for them to travel actively, safely and sustainably while also creating more space for people to enjoy what the high street has to offer.”
