In 2014 Waltham Forest and what if: projects started creating ‘Mini-Holland’ cycle-friendly zones – a series of joined-up public realm interventions. Across different parts of Waltham Forest, co-ordinated and joined up public realm interventions were realised, integrating highway engineering, greening and sustainable urban drainage solutions. The award-winning scheme has radically improved the borough’s cycling infrastructure and has achieved a step change in the number of local people choosing to cycle and walk. what if: projects have continued to work with LB Waltham Forest expanding this approach to other areas.

Orford Road in the Walthamstow Villages was the first scheme to be implemented as part of Mini Holland series. It was initially met with a lot of resistance from parts of the local population who feared being pushed out of the area. The road layout was radically transformed from a traffic-choked street into a now very popular, accessible shared-space and cycle street linked to a new green village square and encourages non-economic reasons for visiting the high street. The new scheme enhances the streets’ character, makes journeys through it easier, and offers more space to spend time while supporting the growth of the local economy. Introducing new green infrastructure helped bring the community together, and residents have maintained the planting.

The scheme’s health and economic benefits to the community have been massive. People are now reportedly cycling more, walking more and breathing in fewer fumes. Along Orford Road, all commercial units are filled for the first time in 15 years, and the street with its new village square, has become a destination. Over 300 new trees have been planted, and 2.5 acres of new public realm have been created to date.

The Mini Holland project series has informed national and London policies and planning, including Human Streets – The Mayor’s Vision for Cycling, three years on, 2016 / DfT ‘Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy, 2016 / Mayor’s Transport Strategy, June 2017 / Healthy Streets for London, 2017 and the Liveable Neighbourhoods agenda.

“Orford has been jam packed with people today. Outside dining, drinking and general meandering. Car free is care free.” Tweet by Bill Foster, 08.08.2015

“Walked instead of drove to station this morning through village for first time in two years. Too hectic before.” Tweet by Angeolina, 27.08.2015

“So nice to walk round the village with kids now, even in the rain.” Tweet by Gwilym, 26.08.2015

“Walthamstow Village Mini Holland scheme: an example of good design that works for all users” Human Streets, The Mayor’s Vision for Cycling, three years on, March 2016