The design for the new Ilford station southern entrance has been unveiled, but some residents fear the layout could increase crime and doesn’t have enough trees.
Transport for London (TfL) has submitted a planning application to Redbridge Council for an additional entrance to accommodate the increased number of projected commuters with the completion of the Elizabeth line.
The new opening will be a “lightweight structure, approximately 36m by 7m” and the entrance will include six ticket gates and staff toilet.
Commuters will access the third entrance from Ilford Hill and walk down a 70m corridor which will be “edged with a raised granite kerb”.
Some residents, who live in flats near to the station have made public representations about the plans.
“I am concerned that there could be a spike in crime as there is lots of persistent, low-level crime currently at the main entrance,” one said in an official representation against the scheme.
“Has a security strategy been put in place to discourage the thieves drug dealers that currently hang out near the Cranbrook road entrance?
“Will the station be manned at all times to discourage anti-social behaviour?
“Will there be some sort of fence separating the route to the station and our building?”
As well as posing questions about crime, a group of neighbours also asked if it were possible to install a tree canopy.
“It would be a lost opportunity to just tarmac over without adding any value to the community or immediate environment for residents,” they said in a written submission.
“Can you line the route from street perhaps with evergreen trees to provide a canopy and make a statement about the environmental aspirations of the mayor’s fund or indeed TfL/Network Rail.
“The lack of greenery and planting in the proposal is a big concern - also how to passengers dispose of litter as they alight from the trains?”
The residents were not totally against the proposal and hoped relevant parties could come together to make the plans work for everyone.
“We understand the importance of this infrastructure project to London and we are sure you will take some joint responsibility on minimising
the impact after the station is opened on the local community,” the group added.
“Only by working together can we create, inspiring, clean & green spaces that London desperately needs.
“Other than these concerns we welcome the new proposal and look forward to your response.”
The intricacies of the application will be discussed at a Redbridge Council planning committee meeting, date to be confirmed.
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