On 11 February, my three year old was crossing Balmoral Road with me when he was hit by a car trying to pass us. The car then sped away without stopping. Fortunately, he escaped with light injuries, but it was every parent's nightmare scenario - a dangerous driver hitting a tiny child and driving off, when we were just on our way home from nursery. 

Back in 2023, Newham council proposed an LTN that would have closed Balmoral and Tylney road to through traffic. If it had been in place, the incident could not have occurred. I know we are not the only family to have been affected by dangerous driving in our local, residential area, which contains 3 schools. We are now calling on Newham council to revisit their plans for the Woodgrange/Capel LTN and put in place proper traffic filters to keep our children safe on our roads. 

The evidence of the benefits of LTNs is very clear. TFL data show they lead to decreases in accidents, improved air quality, reduced street crime and increased cycling levels.

This isn't about demonising people who need to use their cars and it's right that Newham listen to the community to get the scheme right. But they need to act swiftly, because our kids deserve to be safer on their own streets. Please sign the petition below to show your support for the Woodgrange/Capel LTN scheme, and ask the council to act.