One of London's most iconic streets is set to undergo a major transformation as design options for Fleet Street have been unveiled. The City of London Corporation has published proposals that include more seating, planting, and wider pavements, aiming to create a greener and safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.
Historic Street Embraces Modern Change
Fleet Street, once the heart of the UK's newspaper industry and with a heritage stretching back centuries, is adapting to new developments and increasing footfall. The area is expected to see daily footfall rise by approximately 40,000 people, driven largely by the Corporation's new Police HQ and courts building at Salisbury Square. This surge necessitates a comprehensive upgrade of the streetscape.
Alderwoman Martha Grekos, Chair of the Fleet Street Area Working Group, stated: "Our ambition is to create a greener, safer and more welcoming environment for everyone who uses this important route." The street is home to historic landmarks such as Ye Old Cheshire Cheese, considered by some to be London's oldest pub, and Dr Johnson's House, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Two Design Options on the Table
The public consultation, launched on May 27 and running until July 27, outlines two distinct options. Both proposals increase space for walking, wheeling, and cycling, but differ in traffic management. The first option suggests restricting eastbound motor vehicle traffic east of Salisbury Court, allowing only buses, taxis, and cycles. The second option maintains all through traffic.
- Option 1: Eastbound restriction for private vehicles, with exceptions for buses, taxis, and cycles.
- Option 2: No changes to current traffic flow, focusing on pedestrian and cycling improvements.
The £9.5 million project is funded and delivered by the City of London Corporation, with support from the Fleet Street Quarter Business Improvement District (BID). Construction is expected to begin in late 2027 or early 2028, following finalization of the design.
Local Business Support
James Hennebry, Chief Executive of Rosslyn Coffee, which operates a café on Fleet Street, expressed enthusiasm: "Rosslyn's sites are listed amongst the world's leading specialty coffee shops and this is an incredibly exciting period for one of London's most iconic streets. Improved access and enhanced dwelling areas will only serve to benefit businesses such as ours."
Alderwoman Grekos added: "Fleet Street is one of London's most iconic and historic streets, and this project gives us a unique opportunity to reimagine it for the future. The design options we are bringing forward reflect valuable input from local businesses, residents and stakeholders, and demonstrate our ambition to create a greener, safer and more welcoming environment for everyone who uses this important route. I would encourage all those with an interest to take part in the consultation and help shape the next chapter for Fleet Street."
Residents and stakeholders are invited to respond to the consultation via the City of London Corporation's website.
