A 20mph zone could be imposed along two Brent roads which currently has a 30mph limit following a string of accidents over the past few years. 

Between February 1 2019 and January 31 2022, there were 22 crashes that resulted in injuries along Walm Lane and Chichele Road, between Willesden and Cricklewood, the latest accident data reveals.  

The accidents involved 34 vehicles and two bicycles, resulting in 23 casualties – five of which were pedestrians.

Despite the number of incidents, fortunately there have been no fatalities so far.

However, one accident was classed as serious when a motorbike collided with a woman outside Willesden Green Station in July of last year. The 39-year-old pedestrian was taken to hospital with critical injuries.

The motorbike rider, who was also taken to the hospital for minor injuries, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving whilst under the influence of drugs.

Each year, roads and locations across the borough with the most number of accidents are identified as places which could benefit from the introduction of new safety measures. This year, Walm Lane and Chichele Road have been highlighted.

Brent residents were asked to have their say on the plans, with the consultation period coming to an end last month (February).

The consultation said: “Due to the high number of accidents in the past three years, we are proposing changes that aim to improve road safety by reducing the speed of vehicles and improving crossing facilities for pedestrians.

“These changes will also help to improve the quality of people’s experience and deliver wider benefits such as road safety, cycling and urban realm improvements to the area.”  

As well as introducing the 20mph zone, the council is also looking to add a zebra crossing outside St Gabriel’s Church, a two-way cycle lane, new road markings and signs, and footway buildouts on both sides of Walm Lane. 

A Brent Council spokesperson said: “We are committed to reducing the number of people killed or injured as a result of road traffic accidents in the borough.

“Walm Lane and Chichele Road were prioritised on the basis of accident records and the scheme includes the introduction of a new 20mph speed limit, new zebra crossing, cycle lane and speed tables which will reduce traffic speeds and improve safety for all road users.

“A public consultation on proposed road safety improvements finished on Friday 3 March and officers are currently reviewing the responses received. Depending on the outcome, construction of the proposed improvements could start in late summer and is expected to take around 8-weeks to complete.”