TfL unveils plan to move ‘loathed’ Highgate 271 bus terminus

The 271 bus will only run at night under TfL proposals (Image: � Nigel Sutton email pictures@nigelsuttonphotography.com)

For years, traders, residents and parents have campaigned to have the 271 bus stop in South Grove, off Highgate High Street, moved over fears about pedestrian safety.

But TfL have always ruled out a move until today, when it launched a consultation on plans to move the stand to North Road, where the 214 bus also terminates.

Under the plans, the pavement on North Road, outside Highgate School, would be widened and realigned with an existing pelican crossing.

A new mini-roundabout would also be created outside the Red Lion and Sun pub, and the central reservation would be made larger.

The 214 and 271 buses would then use the roundabout to turn around, rather than at the junction with Castle Yard, as the 214 bus does now.

The TfL consultation says: “This not only provides a safer place for the 271 and 214 to turn, but it would help to slow traffic down creating a safer environment for pedestrians and vehicles.”

The bus stand in South Grove would be removed entirely under the plans.

The plans would make the 271 terminus accessible for wheelchair users, as the stand in South Grove cannot be used by disabled passengers.

But the proposal would see North Road only have one traffic lane instead of two, to allow the pavements and central reservation to be made bigger.

TfL says it would plant eight semi-mature trees “to create a better sense of place”.

TfL is running a consultation on the plans from today until March 13.

Have your say on proposals by going online, emailing consultations@tfl.gov.uk, or writing to: FREEPOST TFL CONSULTATIONS.