What are low traffic neighbourhoods

Low traffic neighbourhoods might seem like a buzzword at the moment. They’ve been a controversial topic that’s been at the top of political debate, but what exactly are they? And what makes them so controversial?

What is a low traffic neighbourhood?

A low traffic neighbourhood is also known as an LTN and is an urban planning and transportation strategy to reduce vehicle traffic in residential areas. The aim is to reduce air pollution in certain residential areas and create safer neighbourhoods. Driving through a LTN requires a permit, which is usually only available to residents and businesses located in the LTN. Motorists who drive through a low traffic neighbourhood without a permit will be fined £130 fine, which can be reduced to £65 if paid within 14 days. 

Why are they controversial?

Low traffic neighbourhoods can be controversial for a number of reasons. Critics of the schemes highlight that traffic is simply displaced from one road to another, diverting the issues instead of dealing with them.

Other reasons include the lack of public consultation around the rollout of these schemes as well as potential issues with the implementation of the schemes that could lead to traffic jams and confusion among drivers of affected routes.

What are the characteristics of a low traffic neighbourhood?

The typical characteristics of a low traffic neighbourhood include;

• Traffic Filtering: Low traffic neighbourhoods tend to use bollards, planters or signage to limit traffic, while maintaining access to residents.
• Reduced speed limits: The speed limits are often lower in low traffic neighbourhoods, further speed deterrents such as speedbumps can be installed to reduce speeding.
• Pedestrian & cyclist priority: LTN prioritise pedestrian and cyclist travel, often with purpose-built bike lanes to encourage cycling.  

Where are the low traffic neighbourhoods in the UK?

Most of the low traffic neighbourhoods in the UK are based in London and include areas in;

• Camden
• Croydon
• Ealing
• Hounslow
• Lambeth
• Newham
• Waltham Forest

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