In 2014, Waltham Forest won the bid to install a brand new, ‘Mini Holland’ cyclist scheme in the borough. The idea seemed intriguing and many thought it could be a great addition to the area. The council’s proposals sought to inform and convince the people that having a Mini Holland would greatly benefit the borough and the well-being of the population in Waltham Forest. However, when the scheme was tested in late 2014 in Walthamstow, it was met with negative feedback. Since the recent full installation of Mini Holland, the issues are continuing.
Many signs have appeared in windows of shops, and even houses, which display the words, ‘No Road Closures!’ and ‘Stop Closing Our Roads!’ This makes it evidently clear that local residents and shop-keepers are not happy about the way Mini Holland has been introduced into the area. Mark Finamore is the owner of a local antique furniture shop on Orford Road, at the heart of the Walthamstow Village area of Mini Holland. The area has been transformed and has affected local businesses. Mr Finamore says “I’m not very happy about it, but I’m not anti-cyclist.” He explains that it “has stopped the community from moving around. Customers are worried about fines for picking up furniture. They can’t drive in, so they have to carry this heavy furniture. It’s not planned very well.”
The shop owners were given consultation forms prior to the installation of Mini Holland. The forms asked questions such as ‘Would you like to see improved conditions for pedestrians and cyclists?’ Mr Finamore claims that if you said yes to any of the questions on there, then you are taken to have agreed with the whole scheme. You are put on the list of those who say ‘Yes, I like it.’ Mr Finamore agreed with some of the statements on the consultation form, therefore, he had been put on the list. “It tricked me. I am now carrying stuff in the rain because I said yes to improved conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. It’s a bit corrupt, really.”
In contrast, local cyclist Robert Denning has more positive opinions on the installation of Mini Holland. He believes that it is “excellent and safe to walk and cycle through.” Mr Denning also describes it as having the feel of an old-style village, and being very family friendly. He cycles regularly through the area and comes across far fewer problems with traffic since the area was converted.
Creating a cleaner, happier environment seems like a great idea in theory, but whether it is an excellent idea in practice is a different matter. There are some obvious issues that need to be ironed out. The streets are quieter, but that could also mean less business for shop owners. There are also issues with access for health and emergency vehicles. Whether the £30 million funding given to Waltham Forest is being used appropriately remains with the opinions of the people.
Anastasia Denning, Walthamstow School For Girls
