Residents in Wood Green are voicing concerns over the introduction of new bus routes, citing fears of increased noise, traffic, and a reduction in parking availability. The decision, approved by Councillor Gio Iozzi, Cabinet Member for Climate Action, will see Transport for London (TfL) extend routes 91, N91, and 232 to serve the new Heartlands development.
While the new routes aim to provide essential public transport links for the approximately 2,000 new homes at Heartlands, a statutory consultation on the associated highway changes revealed significant opposition from local residents. Objections primarily centred on the loss of parking spaces, potential for increased traffic and congestion, noise disturbance, and air quality impacts.
TfL has made progress in greening its bus fleet, with buses meeting the latest Euro VI standards, which are either low or zero emission at the tailpipe. These buses contribute to improving air quality and minimise overall vehicle sound, with lower vibration levels for a more comfortable experience. In areas where congestion is anticipated, parking restrictions in the form of double yellow lines will be introduced to keep congestion to a minimum. The routes will be served by hybrid buses, which operate on electric power at low speeds. When sufficient battery charge is available, the electric power motor propels the bus up to approximately 10mph from a standing start, significantly reducing engine noise during arrival and departure from stands.
TfL does not anticipate significant additional congestion in the area, as the proposed removal of parking bays at key locations will ensure clear and safe traffic flow and bus accessibility. Most roads in the area have traffic calming measures to deter speeding and raised zebra crossings for safe pedestrian crossings. If the proposals proceed and the bus routes become operational, TfL will prepare a route timetable from bus stop to bus stop. The timings will be monitored to understand if there are delays on the route and whether mitigation measures will be made to reduce congestion.
One of the most contentious points of contention has been the proposed location of a bus stop on Mary Neuner Road. Several residents have objected, expressing concerns about noise and congestion, and noting a discrepancy between the location mentioned in an earlier consultation (Avalon Mansions) and the current proposal (Braeburn Mansions/Goldcrest House). Officers acknowledged that the bus stop on Mary Neuner Road had been approved in April 2024. An objection was received concerning the proposed location of a bus stop outside Goldcrest House, with the resident explaining that its position could negatively affect the safe and timely transfer of a disabled person from a vehicle into their apartment. Officers have considered the concerns raised and have contacted the resident directly to discuss alternative options available to support the resident's access needs. If approved, a dedicated parking space would be provided for the sole use of the resident.
Councillor Iozzi approved the implementation of the revised proposals, including a revised bus stand on Coburg Road, which has been extended to accommodate two buses simultaneously without a net loss of parking. The decision authorises the Head of Highways and Traffic to make the necessary traffic management orders and undertake highway infrastructure works.
The Heartlands development is car free/car capped
based on the planning policy definition. The Council will prohibit the issuing of parking permits to future occupiers of the residential element of the development. Disabled parking allocation is provided and agreed with the Council with each development, equating to 0.25 parking spaces per unit, which will allow for approximately 7% wheelchair accessible parking spaces. The Public Transport Accessibility Level (PTAL) across the original site is a value between 4 and 6; therefore, the introduction of bus services into the area shall go some way to improving connectivity for the newly increased numbers of residents.
In addition to the £30,000 allocated from the Housing Department budget for implementation, TfL has not outlined any other anticipated costs associated with the long-term maintenance or operational aspects of these new bus routes. The proposals align with the council's Transport Strategy, aiming for improved air quality, reduced congestion, and increased use of public transport.
TfL plans to remove route 123 from Wood Green High Road. Implementation is expected by the end of July 2026.
Public reports pack 23rd-Jul-2026 09.00 Cabinet Member Signing Decisions 23rd-Jul-2026 09.00 Cabinet Member Signing Printed minutes 23rd-Jul-2026 09.00 Cabinet Member Signing
