Don't Choke London

Seven Dials Monster Bike Car Free Shorts Gardens Not-so-car-free Betterton Street

The streets around the Seven Dials will be closed to normal traffic on Tuesday 12th June. Camden Council will be closing Earlham Street, Seven Dials, Monmouth Street, Mercer Street, Neal Street, Tower Street and Short's Gardens to host the Don't Choke Britain campaign launch.

This flagship event is supported by a series of activities across the country and aims to highlight the benefits of reduced pollution and congestion. This can be achieved through the use of alternative means of transport to the car, whether that is walking, cycling or public transport. Cleaner, greener cars, car sharing and more responsible car use are encouraged.

On the day, the Seven Dials area will be given over to:
• A range of alternative technology vehicles, from gas powered vans and buses to electric scooters and collapsible bikes. Many of these will be available to try out.
• Displays from transport and community organisations, including the Government's Are You Doing Your Bit initiative, Transport for London and the London Cycling Campaign.
• A huge range of market stalls, free rides on a horse drawn carriage and street entertainment in the form of comedians and musicians.
• Speeches from a high profile celebrity and representatives from Don't Choke Britain and Transport for London

The launch will run from 10 am to 4 pm. To allow sufficient time to set up and clear up, the Seven Dials area will be closed to motorised traffic from 7am to 7pm.

Camden will be arranging alternative parking for those with a valid resident's permit at the Bloomsbury Square Car Park. The first 20 will receive free parking on 12 June. Thereafter, a charge of £8 for the day would apply.

Camden have promised that they will ensure that appropriate measures are taken to manage the street environment, goods deliveries, parking, and illegal trading on the day. They are also planning a programme of 'deep washing' of streets and roads around the Dials.

Would it not be nice if Camden took such a keen interest in the area all year round? The answer to this will depend on who you ask in Covent Garden. Many residents and businesses still vividly remember the traffic chaos in the streets outside the Seven Dials area. Betterton Street, Shelton Street and Drury Lane became congested beyond recognition, whilst the Seven Dials area itself was completely 'car free'.

More info:
Stefan Zabel,
Event Organiser,
Pollution Projects,
Environmental Health,
London Borough of Camden,
Town Hall Extension,
Argyle Street,
London WC1H 8EQ
Tel: 020 7974 5657
Email: stefan.zabel@camden.gov.uk
http://www.camden.gov.uk/green/
http://www.camden.gov.uk/green/sections/yousay/links10.html
http://www.dontchokelondon.co.uk/

© Covent Garden Community Association, May 2001

 

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