Greenwich Foot Tunnel

There are proposals to allow cyclists to bike through the pedestrian tunnel under the Thames. In the past they have always been asked to dismount and walk their bikes through.

WFS4A has written to the boroughs of Greenwich, Tower Hamlets and Newham saying we are completely opposed to this plan.

Recent tragedies have demonstrated that it is possible for cyclists to kill pedestrians. We think that decision makers imagine cyclists decorously pottering through the tunnel. However these days many London cyclists are up to or exceeding the 20mph speed limit imposed on motorists in many residential areas. They dress like Olympic sportsmen and ride a similar speeds. Although most cyclists are responsible, many weave in and out in a dangerous manner, ride on pavements, go through red lights etc.

To allow cyclists to bike through the Greenwich Tunnel would be at least alarming to many pedestrians, especially older people, children, people with physical, learning or sensory disabilities, and potentially really dangerous.

We are also conscious of the increase in phone-snatching and other criminal acts carried out by criminals using bikes and mopeds to make their escape. The Greenwich Foot Tunnel is very popular with tourists who would be a perfect target for these people.

We have as yet only had an answer from the Mayor of Tower Hamlets, John Biggs, who says "Thanks for your email, and I tend to support your view about the Foot Tunnel. It will I think in the end be a decision for the full council, and will take some time I believe before it formally reaches us."

Please do write and object to this unnecessary and potentially hazardous idea.

You can read more about it from the Evening Standard article here:-

https://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/plans-to-break-ban-on-cyclists-using-greenwich-foot-tunnel-sparks-crossriver-row-a3624111.html