Six weeks of improvement works begin on Plumstead High Street
Six weeks of work on Plumstead High Street have begun today (17 February) with the aim to create a safer and more attractive area.
A new zebra crossing is to be installed outside Bannockburn Primary School with relocation of an existing bus stop close to the school.
Greenwich Council also say they’ll be planting new trees, resurfacing the road and widening paving near the crossing with tactile paving, claiming “as well as improving the look and feel of the area, these improvements make it smoother, safer and better for drivers, pedestrians and public transport users.”
Two-way traffic lights are in operation during the work.
Previous improvement work
This work follows a programme of changes along the High Street which included removal of much railings and street clutter resulting in an improved High Street. A number of shopfronts were also improved.
The London Fire Brigade also refurbished their fire station after once considering moving away, while also building a new extension beside facing the High Street.
While the High Street and particularly Lakedale Road are far from perfect, they’re a lot better than a decade ago and hopefully this new scheme continues that trend.
One area still sorely requiring improvement is outside Plumstead station. Funds were allocated more than a decade ago as part of a Housing Zone announcement but work has yet to begin.
TfL last year consulted on changes on the road between Thamesmead and Woolwich but left out this area. Presumably as it was under the Housing Zone area.
Other works not yet complete include refurbishment of the listed power station down White Hart Road which was part of a separate £5.2 million project due to complete in 2021.
Councillor Calum O’Byrne Mulligan, Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Sustainability and Transport, said: “We’re making Plumstead a safer and more pleasant place to be, that is also easier to get around, with crossing, pavement, road and public space improvements.
“This scheme has something for everyone, from the more convenient bus stop location and new zebra crossing for children, families and staff at Bannockburn Primary School to the newly-resurfaced carriageway and renewed footway for pedestrians and road users.
“We’re sorry for the inconvenience while works are underway, and I’m really grateful to everyone in the area for their patience as we work towards a new and improved Plumstead High Street.”
“Residents wishing to travel via Plumstead High Street for the next six weeks are advised to check their journey before they travel, allowing additional time if necessary.
“These works will be followed by the third phase of improvements on Plumstead High Street. We’ll keep you updated on these works once the details have been finalised.
It’s just a shame that some of the earlier improvements around White Hart Lane haven’t been maintained. Dead trees in the pocket garden and rubbish building up around the little pockets of greenery added there. The bottom of Lakedale is always dicey with the significant parking often reducing it to one lane.
I hope there’s a decent coverage with the new street trees, I’ve always thought Plumstead High Street looked rather drab with it’s bright plastic signage and lack of any colour other than various shades of grey.
I agree Sacha. Sadly Greenwich Council are not known for their good maintaine of public realm and open spaces including pocket parks etc which is a shame.
Tbat said litter is down to the people that leave it and they need to take some of the responsbility themselves..The Council needs to take more enforcement to stop people dropping litter and leaving rubbish on the street..it spoils areas for local residents.
In busy areas with lots of footfall near shops and open spaces etc The council needs to install more bins or the existing bins need to be emptied twice a day to stop bins from from overflowing with rubbish dropping on to the floor.
Plumstead High Street was indeed of improvement so to.make ghe area safer for everyone. I am sure there improvements will go a long way to achieve that.