Brent Council pledges to stop Priory Park Road traffic

Pupils at Kilburn Grange School, in Priory Park Road, pushed the campaign by hosting an event called ‘Kilburn Oasis’ on September 20 to celebrate World Car-Free day.

Art by the children was displayed and stalls were set up to transform the road with turf, plans and games to show how Priory Park Rad could be a greener and safer space.

The campaign was set up to reduce traffic on the road and stop vehicles idling and creating air pollution.

Josie Warshaw of Brent Eleven Streets - a neighbourhood association covering Charteris, Esmond, Glengall, Priory Park, Tennyson, Douglas, Kingsley, Kenilworth, Aldershot, St Julian's and part of Hazlemere roads, and Victoria Mews – has been working with the school for a “long time” to reduce these issues.

And after the event, Brent Council has pledged to close the road permanently.

The Kilburn Oasis campaign for a green space (Image: Jonathan Goldberg)

Cllr Muhammed Butt, leader of Brent Council, said: "I visited Kilburn Grange School three times now, and I can see the problems connected with the street as it is currently used.

“I'm delighted to announce that we will be working with the school and the local community on developing a scheme to create a new permanent green, car free space, taking into account the views of the children, including their artwork, representing their vision.”

Georgia Gold, MP for Queen’s Park and Maida Vale, was also at the event to support the children’s campaign.

Councillor Muhammed Butt at the Kilburn Oasis campaign for a green space (Image: Jonathan Goldberg)

Throughout the event there was live music performed by Kilburn State of Mind, a social inclusion charity.

There were also free activities such as face painting, juggling, cycle training, cycle repairs, blood pressure checks and electric cargo bike rides.

Headteacher Helen Khinich said: "We are delighted to have the backing of both Brent and Camden councils to close the road permanently to traffic.

“Our children will be so much safer, and a green space - clear from cars and vans - will provide a traffic-safe space for residents too. With 10 per cent of our pupils suffering from asthma, this sends a clear message that clean air is not negotiable"