Transport for London has commenced major roadworks on the A23 Streatham Hill to install protected cycle lanes and dedicated bus lanes along a route identified as an accident hotspot.
The works, which started on July 21, 2025, will redesign the section between Holmewood Road on Brixton Hill and Sternhold Avenue, with completion scheduled for spring 2027. The area recorded 72 collisions in the 36-month period up to October 31, 2024, injuring 75 people.
Lane restrictions came into effect from Monday, August 4, operating in both directions until autumn. Overnight closures took place on August 3 and 4 between 10pm and 5am along sections between Christchurch Road and Sternhold Avenue.
Julie Lewington, TfL’s Head of Projects and Programmes, stated: “Our plans to transform A23 Streatham Hill for everyone who lives in, works in and visits the area will make it easier and safer for people to travel and enable more people to walk and cycle. We’re working to minimise the impact of construction work on local residents and people travelling through the area and would like to thank everyone for their patience during this vital project.”
The scheme follows a consultation held in early 2020 and addresses safety concerns in an area that recorded 81 collisions up to April 30, 2024, injuring 87 people. Two fatalities occurred in 2014, involving one pedestrian in April and one car occupant in December.
Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: “I’m delighted TfL is working in close partnership with Lambeth Council to transform travel in Streatham Hill.”
The redesign includes two new pedestrian crossings, with existing crossings relocated to desired crossing points. Continuous bus lanes will be created by removing parking and loading bays, whilst new traffic signals will be installed at Telford Avenue junction. Additional improvements include new trees, landscaping and sustainable drainage systems to reduce flooding risk.
According to a TfL spokesperson, “the new layout will improve bus reliability and make it easier, safer, and more pleasant for people to walk and cycle in the area.”
Ten bus routes face longer peak-hour journeys during the works, including the 2, 50, 60, 249, 250, 255, 319, 147, 432 and 468. Several side roads will become left-turn exit only for motor vehicles, with Ardwell Road and Tierney Road closed to motor traffic entirely, though cyclists remain unaffected.
Signed diversions are operating during closures, with Streatham Hill Low Traffic Neighbourhood restrictions suspended. TfL is monitoring traffic flows, adjusting signals and maintaining 24-hour access to bus garages.
Parking has been suspended along the A23, with some loading bays unavailable and deliveries recommended outside peak hours. Some bus stops have been relocated or temporarily closed, though Underground and rail services remain unaffected.
Transport for London has partnered with Lambeth Council to monitor the impact of construction on local residents and businesses. Bus operators are collaborating to minimise service disruptions throughout the project.
Drivers are advised to add journey time and check TfL updates, whilst cyclists should follow signposted routes offering safer, quieter diversions.
