Action being taken to improve accident hotspot in Tooting

The changes are being introduced at the junction of Mitcham Lane and Southcroft Road which has seen at least five collisions – and possibly more – in recent years.

The main changes will see the replacement of the existing mini-roundabout at this junction with traffic signals – including new push button pedestrian crossings on each arm of the junction plus advance stop lines to better protect people on foot and riding bicycles.

It will mean some modest changes to parking bays at the junction – with new replacement short-term parking and loading bays provided on Edencourt Road, Kettering Street and Fallsbrook Road to cater to the needs of passing shoppers and businesses.

The scheme also includes improvements to the public realm in this part of Tooting by upgrading pavements outside the shops on both sides of Mitcham Lane between Fallsbrook Road and Edencourt Road – with the scheme boosting the appearance of the local shopping parade through the installation of better-quality paving.

Jenny Yates, Wandsworth’s Cabinet Member for Transport said: “This junction has a chequered history of collisions in recent years and we need to do something about it.

“This was the message that came through loud and clear in the public consultation we held last year. Local people and businesses wanted action taken to improve safety at this location. 

“As a result we’re implementing changes we believe will make it a lot safer for people whatever form of transport they’re using.

“And as part of this project we will be laying new pavements and implementing other public realm improvements at the nearby shopping parade which we hope will make the area more attractive and welcoming and boost trade for these local businesses.” 

The installation of the new traffic signals is scheduled to begin on 13 May.
 
Once the new arrangements are in place the council will undertake further traffic surveys to review any potential displacement and also carry out air quality monitoring to assess the impact of the changes.
 
Residents and businesses with questions about the scheme can email TrafficAndEngineering@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk quoting ‘Mitcham Lane / Southcroft Road junction work’.