Concerns have been raised with City Hall over the impact of “unprecedented development" on south-west London's transport network.
A petition on the issue has received more than 1,000 signatures from residents in Barnes, Mortlake and East Sheen, while Sadiq Khan's transport deputy has insisted that Transport for London [TfL] is well prepared for the demands of future housing in the area.
The petition, started by Green councillor Niki Crookdake, says that along with neighbouring Kew, the area contains “a corridor hugely constrained by the River Thames, the railway and Richmond Park, giving rise to regular and serious levels of traffic congestion”.
The petition warns that improvements to the area’s transport infrastructure are needed to “support the unprecedented level of development in the area, which is destined to accommodate at least an additional 3,000 homes and more than 6,000 people living and working in the area”.
It continues: “In addition to this, there are major uncertainties over the future of Hammersmith Bridge and rail and bus service levels in the locality, some of which have recently been reduced.”
The petition requested the appointment of an 'independent transport consultant', who could provide advice on improvements to local infrastructure.
But in a letter responding on the mayor’s behalf, deputy mayor for transport Seb Dance has said that “at this stage, TfL believes that there is no need" for such a consultant.
He said that while he understands local concerns, “the level of development proposed for the area reflects the housing targets and anticipated growth in employment for Richmond as set out in the London Plan" [the main document outlining future development in the capital].
Mr Dance added: “TfL has carried out strategic modelling to ensure that the level of growth throughout London can be supported by transport infrastructure and management measures, which are set out in the Mayor’s Transport Strategy and the London Plan.
“I hope you will appreciate that such developments are vital in ensuring everyone in London has somewhere to live, work and be safe.”
The petition was supported by the Mortlake and East Sheen Society, the Mortlake Community Association and the Barnes Community Association - and was initially raised at City Hall by Green London Assembly Member Siân Berry in July.
