The junction of Chelsea Embankment / Battersea Bridge / Cheyne Walk / Beaufort Street and the lack of ‘Green Man’ crossing facilities has been a longstanding concern for local residents and representatives.

Following the regrettable fatal accident on 13 January 2021, a local resident and activist, Rob McGibbon, launched a petition calling on Transport for London (TfL) to improve pedestrian safety on the north side of Battersea Bridge. The petition has received overwhelming support with over 25,000 signatures received since its launch.

Alongside the residents’ campaign, Greg Hands MP urgently contacted the TfL Commissioner for Transport urging TfL to immediately look into plans to improve pedestrian safety and a meet with local elected representatives to discuss plans.

On Friday 29 January, Greg Hands MP met with the TfL Commissioner, alongside the GLA Member for West Central London, Tony Devenish AM and Councillor Johnny Thalassites from the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. At the meeting, TfL set out their commitment to improving pedestrian safety at the junction with ringfenced funding secured for the scheme. The details of the plans are currently under works and will be put to consultation in due course to press forward.

On 19 February, TfL announced that a new pedestrian crossing will be installed at the junction. Greg Hands MP welcomes this the progress made by TfL and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, following the significant residents’ campaign, which continues.

Greg Hands MP continues to support the campaign for improved pedestrian safety and will closely monitor the situation.