Our famous UK road is undergoing a major makeover…we’re overrun by tourists and need help but we like it how it is
A FAMOUS London road is going through a big change – but its residents say they fear the plans.
Portobello Road, West London, is set to undergo a significant renovation project that will see a number of improvements made to the area.
They include additional greenery, reduced traffic and improvements to flood mitigation.
But residents are hesitant to support the proposals and have a “heavy mistrust” of Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea council.
A year-long consultation over the plans involving a panel of local residents, businesses and traders is ongoing.
Resident Ruth Odusanya Daniel, who is on the panel, told MyLondon: “There’s definitely a sense of huge fear in the community and worry over what the council is hiding.
“I hope this project can help to repair the relationship with the council and that transparency over plans will stop people feeling insecure.”
Fruit and veg stall owner Cheryl Devlin said the council’s priority ought to be better organisation of the market.
She said stalls need to be reorganised so “clothes are all in one place and hot food in another”, helping to avoid smalls wafting over her fresh produce.
Charlie Barnett, the owner of an antiques store, added that safety should be the focal point of the council’s plans.
He said his shop was robbed earlier this year and businesses and traders should be able to feel secure.
More than 80,000 visitors can visit the Portobello Road market on a Saturday.
The council is investing in the area to ensure the street market can continue its historic tradition.
Lead member Cllr Elizabeth Campbell said the local authority is putting residents “at the heart of many projects”.
The consultation is due to end in spring 2024, with plans for the road expected to be drawn up within the period.