Tower Hamlets' Streets Get Safer, Greener Upgrade

Tower Hamlets’ streets have undergone major improvements over the past three years, with residents benefiting from safer roads and better options for walking, cycling and public transport. The progress is set out in a new report examining the impact of investment from Transport for London and the Mayor of London.

Between 2022 and 2025, 81 per cent of Tower Hamlets residents walked, cycled or used public transport for their daily journeys, placing the borough among the stronger performers in London. This shift reflects Tower Hamlets’ low levels of car ownership and continued investment in active and sustainable travel.

Support for cycling has been strengthened through over 2,300 adults and children receiving cycle training, helping build confidence and encourage cycling for everyday journeys. Alongside this, improvements to streets and junctions have supported safer and more comfortable conditions for people walking and cycling.

Families have also benefited from the delivery of eight School Streets, which restrict through traffic at school drop‑off and pick‑up times. These schemes help improve air quality outside schools, reduce congestion and create calmer, safer streets for children and parents.

Tower Hamlets has also made progress on cleaner transport, with 150 on‑street electric vehicle charging points installed to support the shift away from petrol and diesel vehicles. In addition, 50 schools have achieved Travel for Life gold accreditation, recognising sustained action to reduce car use on the school run and promote active and public transport.

Together, these transport improvements show how targeted local investment can make a real difference. Tower Hamlets’ changing streets are helping create healthier, safer and more sustainable neighbourhoods, supporting community life while making it easier for people to travel safely and confidently every day.