People can have their say on pop-up bike lanes and safety measures installed near schools to encourage cycling and walking in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Harrow Council is consulting on its ‘Streetspace’ programme, which used Transport for London funding to bring about several new road measures over a six-month period last year.

These included new cycle lanes along Uxbridge Road, Honeypot Lane, and Sheepcote Road, as well as traffic easing measures near Grimsdyke Primary School, Newton Farm Primary School, Marlborough Primary School, and Park High Secondary School.

“These measures were put in place following government guidance to create space for people to socially distance, making streets safer, quieter and less polluted and to encourage walking and cycling, while public transport was at reduced capacity,” the council explained.

“The cycle lane and school street schemes support Harrow’s longer-term climate and health objectives of reducing air pollution, levels of obesity and diabetes, while also tackling congestion, speeding and improving overall road safety.”

Since its implementation, the ‘Streetspace’ programme has sparked debate about the best way to achieve the desired achievements.

Harrow Conservatives have consistently criticised the pop-up cycle lanes, suggesting they are rarely used, have led to more traffic and pollution, and created rat runs as drivers seek to avoid them.

They have also been heavily involved in the campaign to revisit the low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) installed in parts of the borough, which includes a series of road closures to encourage travel by foot or by bike.

The group acknowledged the need for change but argued this approach – implementing a trial then consulting afterwards – has had an adverse effect on many residents’ lives.

Despite this criticism, many people have championed the new measures and believe they are key tool when it comes to changing travel habits in Harrow.

The council is now asking residents for feedback on all the schemes, which will influence any decision around their future.

The consultation period runs until March 31 and comments can be left online at harrowstreetspacestrials.commonplace.is/overview.

All feedback, alongside data reports, will be presented at a special council traffic and road safety advisory panel meeting in April.

Residents can also take part in a separate consultation covering the LTNs aspect of the ‘Streetspace’ programme at www.harrow.gov.uk/ltn.