Prince of Wales Junction Regeneration

The Prince of Wales Junction (the paved pedestrian space on the corner of Harrow Road and Elgin Avenue) was identified as a priority area for improvement in Harrow Road, following concerns raised by the local community.

The chief issues identified were levels of crime and anti-social behaviour on and around the junction, a decline in the local economy and the quality of the street environment.

In partnership with the Metropolitan Police Service and Harrow Road Neighbourhood Partnership (Harrow Road's Local Area Renewal Partnership) we developed a number of proposals in response to these concerns.

1. Proposals for tackling crime and anti-social behaviour

• install two CCTV cameras on the junction
• increase police patrol hours by 240 hours a month
• provide extra funding to make properties more secure

Status: in progress

2. Proposals for reviving the local economy

• help retailers improve their shopfronts and forecourts
• encourage more 'on street events' and assist with the development of a regular street market
• work with the Harrow Road Traders' Association and Harrow Road Neighbourhood Partnership to make Harrow Road more of a shopping destination, with the Prince of Wales Junction its natural focus

Status: in progress

3. Proposals for improving the street environment

• provide new paving
• improve street lighting
• provide seating
• develop ideas for redesigning the main pedestrian space, incorporating potential use for an outdoor café, street market, regular events and community projects as and when required

Status: street improvement designs underwent public consultation in 2007 - elements that met with overwhelming support are being implemented from late August 2008, after the Notting Hill Carnival

Successful regeneration will depend on addressing each of the areas of concern identified above. Greater use of the junction during the day and evening will be encouraged by creating a space for a café, market and events, within an improved street environment.

Plans for redesigning the junction will make it a much more pleasant environment for the local community to spend time in, and help establish the junction as a focal point for Harrow Road. This will support revival of the Harrow Road district shopping centre and it is hoped will encourage development and investment in the area.