A petition urging Merton Council to U-turn their Low Traffic Neighbourhood schemes has launched.

Merton Councils Low Traffic Neighbourhood schemes are being rolled out across the borough to encourage residents to switch to greener forms of transport as part of their emergency Covid-19 response. 

Under the schemes, roads will be closed to through-traffic to prevent the use of residential streets as ‘rat runs’ by vehicles.

The LTN schemes funded by TFL has sparked concern across the borough, since Merton announced they would be trialling Its first phase on September 16. 

MORE: Road closures set for Merton in first phase of low traffic schemes

Since the announcement, hundreds of residents have voiced their worries about the proposed closures. Stating that there has been "little or no consultation" with those who live and work in the borough. 

A petition calling for all proposals to be put to a halt 'immediately' has gathered more than 800 signatures. 

It is being widely circulated on a new Facebook page called One Merton, which launched on September 16.  

Your Local Guardian: Merton Council announced road closures on September 16Merton Council announced road closures on September 16

One Merton has sparked support from over 400 supporters who are all against the LTN schemes. 

The page shares concerns and troubles surrounding the schemes and encourages residents to sign the petition. 

The petition states that the proposals will increase journey times, traffic levels and pollution elsewhere. 

It also highlights concerns on whether there has been a risk assessment for emergency vehicles. 

Merton Council has since responded to the petition and has confirmed that all emergency vehicles were consulted. 

Your Local Guardian: Modal filters Modal filters

A spokesperson for Merton Council said: “Experimental Traffic Management Orders are being used to trial the schemes, as this enables the measures to be implemented during the consultation period.

"It means the council and local people can experience the impact of them more effectively over time.

"The trials are located in places where residents have expressed major concerns in regard to vehicles rat-running and speeding traffic. 

"Less traffic in residential streets reduces harmful pollution, improves air quality and creates pleasanter places for residents to safely walk and cycle.

“We are keen to hear all the views of local people on the impact of the LTNs and will be encouraging them to submit their feedback as part of the consultation.”

To share your concerns with other residents visit One Merton

Signatures reached 816 at the time of publishing. 

To sign visit the E-petition here