Newham Council has approved a significant road safety and cycling scheme for Romford Road at its junction with Woodgrange Road and Upton Lane. The decision, made by Rebecca Johnson, Corporate Director of Environment & Sustainable Transport, on August 5, 2026, will see the implementation of the Romford Road Public Realm Improvement Scheme at Junction 2.
The project, which received no objections during a statutory consultation period, aims to modernise traffic signals, introduce segregated cycle facilities, and amend parking and loading restrictions. The scheme involves the modernisation of traffic signals
and the installation of upgraded signalised parallel pedestrian and pedal cycle crossings at Romford Road adjacent to and across the junctions with Woodgrange Road and Upton Lane.
These, along with continuous footways
and the provision of segregated cycle facilities, are intended to enhance road safety, accessibility, and sustainable travel for all road users,
prioritising cycling and pedestrian movement.
This initiative is part of a larger scheme for Romford Road, which has secured over £10 million in funding from sources including the Levelling Up Fund, Transport for London's Local Implementation Plan, and Newham Council capital allocations. Specifically, £1.8 million from TfL's LIP and £1.0 million from the Newham Council Active and Sustainable Travel scheme have been allocated for Junction 2, with an estimated cost of £0.9 million for this phase.
The proposals align with the Mayor's Transport Strategy and Vision Zero commitment to eliminate road deaths and serious injuries. They also support TfL's Cycling Action Plan and contribute to London-wide air quality and climate objectives. Beyond encouraging a shift from private cars, the proposals contribute to London-wide air quality and climate objectives, including the Mayor's Environment Strategy, by encouraging modal shift away from private car use, increasing levels of active travel, and improving the public realm through greening and tree planting.
During the consultation, eight responses were received, all expressing support for the proposals. A public drop-in event at Forest Gate Library on July 9, 2026, also saw largely positive feedback from 34 attendees, who welcomed the anticipated benefits for pedestrian safety, cycling provision, and the overall public realm. During the event, a small number of concerns were raised regarding construction impacts, traffic impact and consultation coverage, which will be considered as the scheme progresses.
Furthermore, Three respondents provided suggestions or raised points for consideration during detailed design and implementation. These included potential refinements to the cycle arrangements on Upton Lane, additional signage and placemaking features, and questions relating to parking, traffic management, street furniture and maintenance. These comments were submitted in support of the scheme and did not constitute objections.
The approved scheme includes the introduction of new loading bays, 'at any time' waiting and loading restrictions, and the conversion of footway and carriageway space into segregated cycle tracks. Additionally, a Copenhagen-style raised crossing will be constructed in Sprowston Road, and pedestrian crossings will be upgraded, including mini zebra crossings and signalised parallel pedestrian and cycle crossings at the junctions with Woodgrange Road and Upton Lane.
The works will be carried out by Marlborough Highways Ltd under the Council's Highways Works Contract 2026. The implementation of this decision can commence from August 19, 2026, following the end of the call-in period. The report does not specify a completion date for the full scheme.
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