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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.

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“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.