'Planning': "Harlesden scoops £4m for transport work"

Link to 'Planning' web site

The money is intended to help fund improvements outlined in a community charter drawn up by locals, and supported by the London Borough of Brent, TfL and urban designers Urban Design Skills. The charter outlines a number of projects to improve traffic flow and create new public spaces over the next ten years.

Leroy Simpson, chairman of the Harlesden Town Team, which drew up the charter, said:

"This is brilliant news. Decision after decision over the years have led to increases in high street traffic and an unhealthy environment. No one would design a town centre this way. The charter sets out our priorities, and the people of Harlesden are working together to achieve them."

The council has also appointed broadcaster Louis Theroux as Harlesden’s 'town champion'. He said:

"In so many ways it is a wonderful place, full of energy and life. But it isn’t living up to its potential. Working together we can tame the traffic, create new public spaces, care better for our buildings and streets, and promote a sense of community. This town charter is a chance to do all that."