Residents and local businesses in Borough Market have won a lengthy dispute with the council, as it reverses its decision to permanently close Stoney St to vehicles. The compromise, which is to close the street at certain times, was brokered by local Liberal Democrat Councillors.
Stoney Street has had temporary restricted access times since 2017, but the council had announced plans to fully close the street permanently. The decision went to consultation, where businesses and residents expressed their opposition to it. Despite this, the Council was determined to move forward with the plans, citing concerns from police around terrorism.
Local Liberal Democrat Councillor David Watson stepped up to support residents and businesses, and ensure their voices were heard. He facilitated a series of meetings to explore what other options were available, including with the Council Cabinet Member. David highlighted that the primary safety concern for local stakeholders was overcrowding, which this closure did nothing to address.
In a rare example of the Council listening to opposition, on 15th August the council published a new Traffic Regulation Order, which retained access to Stoney Street. The street will be closed from 10am-12pm from the 23rd August. It was previously closed to vehicles until 10pm.
Commenting Borough and Bankside Councillor David Watson said:
“This is a win for residents and businesses around Borough Market. The Council had sought to close Stoney Street permanently, which was almost universally opposed by the local community. I’m pleased I could broker a compromise that retains access. The Council should now work urgently with local stakeholders to develop a plan to tackle the dangerous overcrowding in this area.”
