When Lambeth Council rolled out its controversial Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) scheme in West Dulwich last year, they probably didn’t expect such fierce community pushback—or a high-profile judicial slap-down. But that’s precisely what happened.
The recent judicial review ruling has declared Lambeth Council’s implementation of the West Dulwich Low Traffic Neighbourhood unlawful, accusing the council of a “serious failing” by ignoring the genuine concerns raised by local residents. For Londoners frustrated by similar schemes, this decision could signal a shift in power back to the communities affected.
What Went Wrong in West Dulwich?
Despite facing a substantial local backlash—67.5% of residents objected in consultations—the council pressed ahead with the West Dulwich LTN. Locals had voiced serious concerns about increased traffic pollution, risks to safety, and detrimental impacts on small businesses. Yet these valid concerns, presented in an impressively detailed 53-page report by the West Dulwich Action Group, were brushed aside by the council. Judge Smith, presiding over the judicial review, described Lambeth’s dismissal of the report as a “serious failing” that rendered the decision “unlawful”.
The Real-Life Impacts of Ignoring Communities
At the heart of this dispute is the reality that traffic doesn’t vanish; it merely moves elsewhere. The West Dulwich residents clearly illustrated how the scheme would force increased traffic onto already congested boundary roads—routes regularly used by over 6,300 local children attending schools and nurseries.
Data provided by the community highlighted significantly longer journey times for most residents, resulting in greater overall pollution, despite intentions to reduce it. Safety concerns were also clear: the scheme would shift traffic onto roads where 80% of local accidents already occur, potentially raising collision risks.
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Businesses Feel the Pinch
One striking aspect of the community’s report was its clear demonstration of the scheme’s negative impact on local businesses. Evidence showed reduced footfall and accessibility problems, causing financial strain for small enterprises—a scenario echoed in various LTN schemes across London.
A Victory for Community Consultation
The ruling isn’t merely a slap on the wrist for Lambeth Council; it’s a stern warning to councils everywhere about the importance of genuine, thorough community consultation. “This ruling sends a clear signal nationwide: communities will no longer tolerate top-down, poorly conceived schemes that ignore local input,” said a spokesperson for the West Dulwich Action Group.
Notably, residents raised nearly £50,000 from over 700 supporters to fund the judicial review—an emphatic testament to their commitment to community engagement and proper democratic processes.
What’s Next for Lambeth Council and LTNs?
Although Lambeth has vowed to continue working towards greener and safer neighbourhoods, the council now faces an uphill battle to rebuild trust. They will have to reconsider their methods carefully, incorporating genuine public engagement in future plans.
As councils across London and the UK take note, this landmark judicial ruling could trigger a wave of reconsideration for similarly unpopular LTNs. Future implementations will now face increased scrutiny, with community voices becoming impossible to ignore.
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