Getting around Wandsworth at night in a safe, accessible and straightforward way is essential to creating an active and welcoming night time experience for all. Though the reinstatement of the night tube has been welcomed by many, much of the borough is not served by the underground and a special focus is needed on transport at night, where more issues can arise compared to the daytime.
Between night workers, residents and visitors alike, the attractiveness and affordability of the different modes of transport, from walking to public transport and taxis, influence our choices of travel. Wandsworth Council is committed to improving active travel through its new Walking and Cycling Strategy (2022-2030), which strives to allow all residents, of all ages and abilities to either walk or cycle to their destinations in the borough without experiencing danger.
Transport, including walking and cycling, requires ongoing review to ensure residents, workers and visitors feel they can explore the borough at night whether alone or in groups.A good quality transport system is also necessary to support businesses at night and meet climate change goals.
Walking and safety
Most people either walk or travel by bus at night in Wandsworth
You want better walking facilities in the night time with more wayfinding and signage
Underpasses, side roads and quiet areas feel unsafe
Back alleyways are unlit and attract crime
Better lighting is needed across Town and Local Centres
Transport hubs and interchanges between bus stops and stations can feel unsafe at night
Women shift workers feel unsafe at night at bus stops and walking home
LGBTQI+ community feel unsafe after dark, especially in quiet areas
Some businesses do not allow their younger staff to work at night
Some youth clubs walk their young people home
Cycling
Bike stands are often located in dark and uninviting places and there is a fear of crime when using the stands, as well as bikes being stolen
Need more Santander cycle docks
Public transport
Public transport needs to be safer, especially for those with protected characteristics such as young people, women and the LGBTQI+ community
Need to improve accessibility across the borough as it is hard to reach some parts by public transport
Concerns around the loss of some bus routes and the frequency of night busses Empty heading
Taxis / private transport
Not everyone can afford taxis, artists for example performing at venues often cannot afford taxis to go home at night
Some businesses have budgets to pay for women and vulnerable staff to travel home at night by taxi, but not all can afford this
Free parking may not serve sustainability interests but helps with safety at night for some people
Public Transport
Work with TfL, National Rail and other transport providers to create safe, vibrant environments at transport hubs and bus stops at night
Interventions to improve the experience at busy interchanges and transport hubs, such as public artwork, calming music, seating and sustainable greening
Council to consider licencing and later opening hours decisions to support a safe environment at transport hubs
Links between bus stops, train and tube stations should be well lit and easy to find at night, including for people with accessibility needs
Information campaign to let passengers know how to seek help if concerning situations arise i.e notifying bus driver if something unsettling happens on their bus
Engage with TfL and rail companies about affordability of transport and experiences of transport for night workers, especially for women and ethnic Review frequency and routes of evening and late-night services to see if current availability is fit-for-purpose, especially in areas underserved by public transport
Walking and wayfinding
TfL’s Legible London signs placed in all town and local centres
Strive to remove street clutter, litter and enforce fly-tipping
Clear wayfinding interventions and safer crossings, including through creative lighting with women’s safety in mind, that are accessible and inclusive for all
Implement the Council’s Walking and Cycling Strategy
Cycling
As proposed in the Wandsworth Walking and Cycling Strategy, use the London Cycling Design Standards to ensure all new cycle tracks in the borough meet Cycleway standards
Place new bike stands in safe and well-lit areas near late opening venues and outside active frontages
Engage with TfL, e-bike operators and other providers on existing bike stands and new placements in safe and convenient places like stations, for flexible travel options at night
Introduce night-time confidence building cycle sessions to encourage people to use active travel at night and educate on cycle safety such as lighting and high-vis accessories at night
Encourage young people to take up cycling at night through incentives in schools and youth clubs
Private transport
Council to work with TfL, Police and taxi providers to help ensure the safety of taxi users
More car club bays to be introduced
Review accessible parking availability in town centres and increase spaces if needed
Deliveries
Provision for delivery drivers of all types recognising them as night workers, such as designated parking spaces for HGV and delivery drivers waiting for jobs, with a view to also minimising disruption to residents and pedestrians
Incentivise businesses to use more sustainable forms of transport at night, such as e-cargo bikes, particularly for doorstep / last mile deliveries