The Cabinet of Newham Council met on Thursday 5 February 2026 to discuss the permanent implementation of the Area 8 'West Ham Park' People Friendly Streets scheme. The Cabinet approved the scheme, making it permanent under a Traffic Management Order (TMO), following a call-in by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) which had raised concerns about the timing of the decision and the weighting of resident opposition.

The Cabinet's decision to make the West Ham Park People Friendly Streets scheme permanent was based on extensive monitoring data and public engagement. The scheme, which was initially implemented under an Experimental Traffic Management Order (ETMO), has demonstrated significant reductions in motor traffic on internal streets, with a 46% decrease recorded after 12 months. This has led to reported improvements in road safety, air quality, and noise levels, contributing to Newham's corporate objectives for a healthier and more sustainable borough. The Cabinet also approved the continuation of the trial disability exemption policy for Blue Badge holders, ensuring continued access for those with mobility needs.

The report highlighted that while the scheme has been successful in reducing through-traffic and encouraging active travel, with cycling increasing by 18% on internal streets, concerns were raised by some residents regarding potential traffic displacement onto boundary roads. However, the Cabinet noted that monitoring data showed a 9% reduction in motor vehicle traffic on boundary roads over the 12-month period, and that the scheme aligns with the Mayor of London's Transport Strategy. The Cabinet also acknowledged the feedback received through various consultation methods, including online surveys, workshops, and petitions, and stated that these had informed the decision-making process.