New bus routes are set to serve approximately 2,000 homes in Wood Green, following a decision by Haringey Council's Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Councillor Gio Iozzi. The decision, made on Thursday, July 23, 2026, involved approving traffic management orders to facilitate the necessary bus stands and stops.
The new routes, extending Transport for London's (TfL) services 91, N91, and 232, will operate along Mayes Road, Coburg Road, Western Road, Mary Neuner Road, and Clarendon Road. These changes are a crucial step in supporting TfL's decision to extend these bus routes to the new Heartlands development, which will provide approximately 2,000 new homes. The implementation of the proposed changes was expected to be completed by the end of July 2026.
A revised plan for a bus stand on Coburg Road was also approved, extending its length from 12 metres to 23 metres to accommodate two buses simultaneously. This extension did not result in any net loss of parking provision. The proposals include two raised tables on Western Road and a zebra crossing to help all users cross safely.
The proposals followed a TfL consultation on bus route changes in Wood Green between October and December 2023. TfL decided in March 2024 to implement its proposals, which led to the need for council-led highway changes to facilitate the extension of routes 91, N91, and 232 to the new Heartlands development. Haringey Council then undertook a statutory consultation on the required highway changes between June 17 and July 8, 2026. A total of 81 responses were received, with objections primarily concerning the loss of parking spaces, potential for increased traffic and congestion, noise disturbance, and air quality impacts.
Specific concerns were raised about the impact on residents, including those with disabilities, and the safety of children due to potential increases in traffic. To mitigate concerns about increased traffic and congestion, the proposals aim to ensure that the local bus network provides an attractive alternative to private car use, helping to reduce private motor traffic. The removal of parking bays at key locations is intended to ensure clear and safe traffic flow and bus accessibility. Regarding noise and air quality, TfL is making progress in greening its bus fleet with low or zero emission buses meeting the latest Euro VI standards, which contribute to improving air quality and minimizing vehicle sound and emissions. Hybrid buses will operate on electric power at low speeds, reducing engine noise during arrival and departure from stands. The roads in the area have traffic calming measures and raised zebra crossings to deter speeding and enable safe pedestrian crossing.
The council will ensure the safety of children and residents with disabilities through traffic-calming measures on roads within the area to reduce driver speeds. The removal of some parking bays will improve sightlines for all road users. TfL drivers have undergone training to ensure they drive buses safely and responsibly. Disabled parking bays will remain in place and will not be affected by the proposal. The introduction of buses may encourage sustainable transport, potentially reducing private car use and promoting road safety.
Councillor Iozzi considered all feedback before approving the implementation of the revised proposals. The cost of these changes is £30,000, to be met from the Housing Department budget. The meeting information does not mention any other anticipated costs such as ongoing maintenance or operational expenses.
The decision aligns with the Council's Transport Strategy, aiming to connect communities, manage growth impacts, and prioritise sustainable transport choices for safer and less congested highways. The proposals are also expected to contribute to improved air quality and reduced congestion, supporting the Mayor of London's Transport Strategy.
More information can be found in the Public reports pack and Decisions documents from the meeting.
