Celebrations for new West Green walking and cycling space

A pop-up market, live music, cycle rides and urban flash-mob, smarter travel tips and the unveiling of a “portrait bench” all formed part of the celebrations as Tottenham’s new walking and cycling space was unveiled.

The space between Downhills Park and West Green Road has been revamped by charity Sustrans and Haringey Council to create a much safer and more pleasant area for local school children, pedestrians and cyclists.

At Saturday’s celebrations, Sustrans unveiled a portrait bench flanked by metal sculptures of Olympic gold medallist Nicola Adams, first black Spurs footballer and Tottenham war hero Walter Tull, and the 'father of meteorology' Luke Howard.

The celebrities for the bench at the entrance of Downhills Park were voted for by the local community from a short-list of people with a connection to the area.

Bryn Lockwood, Sustrans’ Area Manager in North London, said:

"This new route will be fantastic for residents and visitors to Haringey, helping them to walk and cycle more easily around the area."We are delighted with the success of this project and hope this new space will allow local school children and their parents feel more confident about cycling to school."It is vital that we continue to make the capital more accessible by creating more routes that provide people with the opportunity to walk and cycle everyday so we all have the opportunity to be fit and healthy."

Cllr Nilgun Canver, Cabinet Member for the Environment, said:

"This project means safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists and it provides a lovely space for people to congregate and enjoy their surroundings, or hold community events, such as this market."The portrait bench has allowed the community to put their stamp on the area and remind everyone about the inspirational people who are connected to Tottenham."