Cyclists in North London are set to benefit from a significant new infrastructure project aimed at making journeys safer and more accessible. Enfield Council has unveiled a proposal for a substantial new walking and cycling route designed to connect key areas in the borough.
Details of the Proposed Cycling and Walking Link
The council's plan focuses on creating a safe, dedicated link between Palmers Green and New Southgate. The scheme, which recently concluded a public consultation on December 7, 2025, intends to use a combination of quieter residential streets and new traffic control measures to guide cyclists and pedestrians between New Southgate, Palmers Green, and Arnos Grove stations.
The proposed route would run along the boundary of the existing Fox Lane low-traffic neighbourhood (LTN). It aims to connect to the border of the neighbouring Barnet borough via a cycle path through Arnos Park, while also integrating with the existing cycling infrastructure along the busy A406 North Circular road.
Key Infrastructure and Traffic Changes
The plan involves a mix of new cycling facilities. On busier roads such as Alderman Hill, Wilmer Way, and Bowes Road, the council proposes building segregated cycle lanes for maximum safety. Other sections of the route will feature 'on-carriageway' lanes, which are marked but not physically separated from motor traffic.
Several other measures are included to prioritise sustainable travel and improve safety:
- A southbound bus gate on Palmers Road near Arnos Grove Station would restrict general traffic while permitting buses, cyclists, and exempt vehicles.
- Speed reduction measures are planned for Ashridge Gardens, Cranford Avenue, and Broomfield Avenue.
- One of the bus stops at Arnos Grove station will be relocated to the west of the Palmers Road and Bowes Road junction.
- The creation of nine new parallel crossings, which combine zebra crossings with cycle crossings, throughout the area.
Aims and Wider Impact
In a statement on its website, Enfield Council said the project aims to 'create safer, greener, and more accessible streets, encouraging more people to walk, wheel, and cycle for everyday journeys.'
The council emphasises that this route is part of a broader network of walking and cycling paths across Enfield. The overall goal is to support sustainable travel options, reduce reliance on cars, and address local concerns including speeding, a lack of formal crossing points, insufficient cycling facilities, and unsafe junctions.
The public consultation period for the scheme is now closed. Enfield Council has stated it will provide a further update on the project in due course.
