Camden Council has launched a six-week consultation on proposals to make part of Camden High Street permanently pedestrian-only, following a trial that began in May 2025.
Area covered by the trial
The current traffic-free section runs from the junction with Parkway and Kentish Town Road to Jamestown Road and Hawley Crescent, immediately outside Camden Town Underground station. During the trial, buses heading towards Chalk Farm have been redirected along Kentish Town Road and Hawley Crescent before continuing north.
Council’s objectives and potential changes
The council says the trial was introduced to reduce conflict between vehicles and pedestrians, improve air quality, and enhance the visitor experience on the High Street. As part of the consultation, Camden is considering several measures if the scheme is made permanent:
- Replacing the temporary barriers with a smart bollard system to manage access.
- Adding a new northbound bus lane to manage diverted services.
- Extending the pedestrianised area down towards Chalk Farm Road and along adjoining Jamestown Road.
Possible further extension and improvements
Council documents also consider taking the pedestrian area across Camden Lock bridge up to the junction with Castlehaven Road. Proposals for any extended area include improvements for walking, wheeling and cycling and more public space for events and community activities.
"Camden Town is an important shopping and transport hub for local residents as well as being an internationally recognised destination... The trial has made the area safer and more pleasant for pedestrians and reduced air pollution on the street,"
said Councillor James Slater, cabinet member for planning and a sustainable Camden.
Practical implications for residents and visitors
If the change is approved, large temporary barriers used for the trial would be removed and replaced by a more permanent access control system. Local bus routes have already been altered during the trial and any permanent scheme is likely to keep or formalise those diversions. The council has also suggested the pedestrianised space has allowed more events and activities to take place on the High Street.
| Current trial area | Possible extension |
|---|---|
| Parkway / Kentish Town Rd to Jamestown Rd / Hawley Crescent | Down to Chalk Farm Road; across Camden Lock bridge to Castlehaven Road junction |
The consultation gives residents, businesses and visitors an opportunity to comment on whether the trial should become permanent and on the scope of any expansion. The council has framed the proposals around safety, air quality and improving the look and usability of the street, while seeking community input on further changes.
