Trending Now

Accessibility programme for safer crossings approved for Westminster

Fahad Redha

February 12, 2026
3 min read

Accessibility programme for safer crossings approved for Westminster

Westminster City Council has approved a “major” three-year accessibility programme to upgrade its tactile pavements with an aim of “making pedestrian crossings safer and more prominent for visually impaired pedestrians and other users.”

The council is investing £1.49 million in improving the colour contrast, consistency, and guidance at pedestrian crossings, to “finally” bring them in line with national accessibility guidance.

Empty Shops in North Paddington to Be Brought Back to Life

Plans to revitalise vacant retail units in North Paddington aim to boost local businesses, increase footfall and strengthen the community economy.

Balmoral House Set to Deliver New Social Rent Homes

A major housing development at Balmoral House will provide much-needed social rent homes, supporting local families and tackling London’s housing shortage.

Low Traffic Neighbourhoods Linked to Congestion, Says TfL

Transport for London analysis examines whether low traffic neighbourhood schemes are contributing to increased congestion across the capital.

“Previous Westminster Council planning guidance deviated from national standards, meaning that tactile paving was not in a contrasting colour, and at controlled crossings did not extend further into the pavement, both of which make them easier for those with visual impairments to detect,” the council says.

The accessibility programme will cover all signalised and zebra crossings in the borough, with a priority given to areas with a high footfall. These include schools, hospitals, transport hubs, and retail areas.

The programme was developed through “extensive” collaboration with disability charities and organisations including RNIB, Transport for All, and Dementia UK. Feedback from these groups “helped shape the proposals, ensuring the council progressed with the most effective option to support residents who face difficulties getting around the city more safely.”

“The initiative is a key element of Westminster Council’s commitment to improving public realm accessibility, encouraging active travel, and improving connections for residents and visitors,” Westminster said.

The programme of upgrades is due to start this year and will progress in phases, ensuring minimal disruption to the borough’s road network.

For more information on the Tactile Paving programme, read the Cabinet Member report here. Tactile Paving Standard details can be found in Appendix A here and Guidance Notes can be found here.

For more updates on Westminster, visit EyeOnLondon Westminster.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!

We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!

About Author

Fahad Redha

Fahad is the Content Editor at EyeOnLondon, overseeing the publication’s editorial output across news, culture, and lifestyle. With a background in journalism from the University of the Creative Arts, he brings a broad range of experience from local London reporting in Kensington & Chelsea, where he held roles including motoring, events, and health editor. At EyeOnLondon, Fahad plays a central role in shaping content and maintaining editorial standards. His work spans everything from daily news to feature coverage, with a particular strength in motoring and events. He also incorporates photography into his reporting, adding a visual layer to many of his stories. Fahad joined EyeOnLondon in February 2021.