The Streets and Walkways Sub committee discussed the initiation of a new road project at 1 Undershaft, the allocation of income from dockless cycle hire operators, and reviewed delegated decisions on transport and public realm projects. The committee also addressed outstanding references and responded to questions regarding various transport and street-related matters.

1 Undershaft S278 Project

The committee considered the initiation of a Section 278 project for the development at 1 Undershaft, which will involve the construction of a new road and extensive pavement and road reconstruction on Leadenhall Street and St Mary Axe. This project is fully funded by the developer, with an initial £280,000 allocated for evaluation and design. The total estimated cost for the project is between £4.341 million and £6.341 million, with completion anticipated by 2033. Councillor Edward Lord declared a non-pecuniary interest in this item as a member of the Leather Sellers' Company, which has an interest in property developments in the Undershaft area. He was permitted to stay for the discussion and vote. The committee noted the project initiation and the budget for its progression.

Allocation of Income from Dockless Cycle Hire Operators

The committee received an update on the allocation of income generated from Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with dockless cycle hire operators, including Voi, Lime, and Forest. The revised MoUs, in place for 24 months from August 2026, have increased financial contributions from operators, generating an estimated £455,360 per year. This income is allocated to various areas, including MoU management staff costs, an additional Street Environment Officer, consultancy for data auditing, a city-wide review for new bays, bay delivery and maintenance, additional City Police cycling engagement, and a behaviour change campaign. Any unspent funds will be directed to the On-Street Parking Reserve.

Policy and Projects Delegated Decisions

The committee was presented with a report summarising delegated decisions made by the Executive Director, Environment, and the Director of City Operations between July and September 2026. These decisions related to various transport and public realm projects, including public realm improvements at Ironmonger Lane, landscaping at St Peter Westcheap Churchyard, and Section 278 projects for developments at 65 Fleet Street, 60 Chiswell Street, and 10 Salisbury Square. A feasibility study for Cornhill enhancements and participation in the e-scooter trial with TfL were also noted.

Outstanding References

Updates were provided on two outstanding references:

• King William Street Parapet: Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that repairs are in their work programme for the next financial year.
• Bank Junction: An experimental traffic order allowing taxi access across Bank Junction is progressing, with a report to be presented to the Planning and Transportation Committee on 10 November.

Questions on Matters Relating to the Work of the Sub Committee

Several questions were raised by members:

• Travel for Life Programme: Regarding encouraging schools to participate in the Travel for Life programme, it was noted that while schools have high rates of walking and cycling, the administrative burden of the programme is a barrier. Efforts are being made to explore recognition for existing good practice and potential educational benefits.
• Collisions Data: The collisions data is expected to be shared in November, coinciding with an update on the Vision Zero strategy.
• Aldgate to Blackfriars Cycle Highway: The committee discussed the potential return of papers on the Aldgate to Blackfriars cycle highway. It was indicated that this would likely not be until spring 2028, with ongoing monitoring of bus stop bypasses informing future designs. Concerns were raised by the National Federation of the Blind UK regarding the data used for cycle superhighway planning.
• St Paul's Gyratory: An update was provided on the implementation of changes at St Paul's Gyratory, with officers expressing satisfaction with the progress, despite some initial traffic queuing issues which have been addressed through signal adjustments. Feedback from the public and organisations like the London Cycling Campaign is being incorporated, and further adjustments are planned. No collisions have been notified since the scheme's operation.
• Arthur Street: An update was given on the Arthur Street project, which is experiencing delays due to TfL's approach to signing a Section 278 agreement and their proposal to pay in instalments. This is causing issues with material procurement. The matter is being escalated with TfL, with concerns also raised about the embarrassment caused to the City Corporation by the ongoing delays, given the presence of London Councils on Arthur Street.

Any Other Business

Councillor Edward Lord shared positive feedback received from the Grand Départ GB organisers regarding the assistance provided by the City Corporation's operations director and his team during the launch of the Tour de France and Tour de France Femme route in Paris. He extended thanks to Ian and his team for their partnership.