08 Feb 2025
Traffic restrictions introduced in St Albans’ historic George Street during the pandemic have become permanent – but do they go far enough to protect pedestrians?
A one-way system operates between Monday to Saturday morning, and is then restricted to pedestrians and cyclists from 11am on Saturday through to 7am Monday.
A project board made up of representatives from SADC, St Albans BID and the county council has confirmed that these arrangements will remain in place following a widespread public consultation.
Of the 804 people who responded to an HCC survey, 72.4 per cent supported continuing the scheme.
County councillor Sandy Walkington, who was instrumental in promoting the benefits of the scheme, said: “Every Covid has a silver lining.
“George Street had always been under the cosh of too much traffic with all the associated noise and fumes and pedestrians crammed onto narrow pavement. The social distancing requirements created by the epidemic meant that it became one of the St Albans city centre roads to be closed to traffic. And people really liked it, so it led to the investigation to see whether it could and should be made permanent.
“A project board was set up of which I was a member as local county councillor and we trialled re-opening to the pre-closure arrangement, a total seven day closure, and then at my suggestion weekend closure but with the street becoming one-way when it was open during the week.
“Everything was carefully measured with traffic monitors and we carefully consulted businesses and residents throughout. By the standards of normal county council consultations the response was huge so we can be confident it represents the majority view.
“The last arrangement of closure only at weekends and one-way working otherwise received enthusiastic support and this will now become permanent. It seems the best possible compromise, allowing school and business traffic during the week but because that traffic is going downhill only, there are far fewer traffic fumes. The additional benefit of George Street being one way is that it also reduces Fishpool Street being used as a rat run.
“At the weekend George Street suddenly becomes a place to linger, for people to window shop or enjoy food. I look forward so much to seeing how the businesses make use of the opportunity to bring the street to life.
“The next task is to find budget to improve the floorscape and general look of the carriageway. Another win is that the fire service has been involved throughout and is fully on board with this being the permanent arrangement. Almost everyone is happy and with the full closure of Market Place, at a stroke St Albans has become an even more attractive place for residents and visitors alike.”
Sean Hughes, owner of Dylans, said they were happy to see the one-way system remaining as the street is too narrow for two-way traffic.
“We hope that the council access much needed funding to extend pavements to ensure pedestrians can access the street safely and to remove the cycle lane which is very rarely used and very dangerous when the road is closed to traffic.
“There was an initial design of the street conducted by Herts county council created a couple of years ago and we hope that they will now revisit those plans and get the proper fixings in place to make this historical street a pleasant place to visit with new gates and bollards to give a ‘welcome look’ rather than a ‘road closed look’.”
Sophie Trinder, director of Trinder Hair Studios, said while the scheme is welcome, more needs to be done to improve safety: “The pedestrianisation of George Street has proven to be an immensely positive move, bringing significant improvements in safety, reducing congestion, and enhancing the overall experience for the public.
“By prioritising pedestrians, it has created a vibrant space where people can explore, shop, and socialise without the distractions and hazards of vehicle traffic. This transformation has made the street a more inviting and enjoyable destination for locals and visitors alike.
“However, while the changes have undoubtedly improved the area, there is a need to address the safety of the newly introduced cycle paths. Recently, there have been instances where cyclists and scooter riders have been seen speeding down the street, posing potential risks to pedestrians.
“To ensure that the benefits of pedestrianisation continue to be fully realised, it’s essential to implement additional safety measures for these users. By further addressing pedestrian safety, we can maintain George Street as a thriving, safe, and accessible space for everyone.”
Sarah Gillow, creative director of Galio Jewellers, added: “Galio is delighted that this decision has been made, it is an improvement on the situation pre-Covid. We have enjoyed over 30 years trading here and welcome any steps to reduce traffic and make the area a safer place.
“Our pavements remain way too narrow though and it’s hazardous for pedestrians.
“George Street is an intrinsic part of the Cathedral Quarter, with such a strong historic heritage and so many listed buildings. We hope it will be further improved, restored and turned into an attractive predominantly pedestrian space that can be safely enjoyed by all.”
