Transport for London (TfL) has officially approved the development of a new £13 million cycleway that will link Wembley Central and Harlesden, aiming to make the route significantly less intimidating for cyclists and pedestrians. This ambitious project, named Cycleway 72, is designed to address safety concerns and foster greater use of active travel options in the area.
Enhancing Safety on a High-Demand Route
TfL has identified the road network between Wembley and Willesden Junction as one of the top six routes in London with the greatest potential future demand for cycling. The new cycleway will focus on improving the particularly hostile crossing of the North Circular at its junction with Harrow Road, where numerous collisions have occurred. Over a two-year period, 109 people were injured in collisions on Harrow Road, including nine cyclists and 14 pedestrians, two of whom sustained serious injuries.
Key Features of Cycleway 72
The scheme includes a section of segregated cycle track on Harrow Road, upgraded pedestrian crossings, and increased pavement space to enhance safety. Where possible, the cycleway will follow quieter residential streets and incorporate fully protected sections to boost confidence among cyclists. TfL notes that the current A406 North Circular crossing deters many would-be cyclists, but the new improvements aim to change that.
A Collaborative Effort for Community Transformation
This project is a joint venture between TfL and Brent Council, with the local authority claiming it will transform everyday journeys by encouraging people to cut car use, embrace active travel, and improve air quality. Brent Council Leader, Cllr Muhammed Butt, described the scheme as a game-changer for the borough, stating it will help ensure streets work better for everyone, including those walking, cycling, wheeling, using buses, or driving.
Cllr Butt emphasized that for too long, residents have faced busy roads, unsafe crossings, and barriers dividing communities. Thanks to TfL funding, this new route will link the heart of Wembley to some of Brent's fastest-growing communities, from Bridge Park in Stonebridge to the outskirts of Old Oak Common in Harlesden.
Future Steps and Long-Term Vision
Following approval from Brent Council, TfL will now commence the detailed design phase, expected to take approximately one year. After this, the construction plan and delivery timeline will be finalized. This initiative marks the first step toward a long-term plan for a cycleway linking Brent with Hammersmith and Fulham.
London's Walking and Cycling Commissioner, Will Norman, highlighted the power of partnership in this project, combining TfL's expertise with the borough's local knowledge to create streets that truly reflect community needs. He expressed optimism that these improvements will reshape one of Brent's busiest corridors, supporting more people in choosing walking or cycling for daily journeys as part of building a safer and greener London for all.
