Camden Council has made the pedestrianisation of part of Camden High Street permanent, ending an 18-month trial that removed motor traffic from one of north London's busiest shopping streets. The decision was announced on Tuesday 27 October, following a consultation held this summer on keeping the changes and on whether the traffic-free area should be extended.

What becomes permanent

The trial began in May 2025 after feedback that vehicles were dominating the street, pedestrians were spilling off pavements and air quality was poor. The permanent layout runs between Britannia Junction and the junction with Jamestown Road and Hawley Crescent, in front of Camden Town Underground station. Buses towards Chalk Farm now travel along Kentish Town Road and then Hawley Crescent before continuing north. Temporary barriers at each end of the area will be replaced with permanent barriers early next year.

What residents asked for next

In the most recent consultation, 57% of all respondents agreed with making the changes permanent, including 51% of people living in the Camden Town area. Cabinet member James Slater said the decision followed the consultation and the positive outcomes seen during the trial. The council reported that walking levels held steady, daytime and evening-peak spending in local businesses stayed in line with pre-trial levels, and the extra space hosted six main cultural events.

The council also promised action on issues raised by residents, including more reliable bus services, improved safety, cleanliness and decluttering, with a deep clean of the high street planned in the coming weeks. Work continues on proposals to extend the pedestrian zone northwards over Camden Lock bridge, with more details due in spring 2027.

Sources: Camden Council and IanVisits.