On Friday, 28 February, Richmond Council called for targeted investment in the borough's transport infrastructure during a high-profile visit by London's key transport leaders.

Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, and Walking and Cycling Commissioner, Will Norman, met with Richmond Council to discuss critical local transport issues, including the need for improved public transport links, smarter traffic management, and safer, more sustainable travel options.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: "Too many Richmond residents still have inadequate transport links – particularly in areas like Hampton, Ham, and Whitton – where public transport options are simply not good enough.

"Richmond Council has a strong vision for better, greener, and more accessible transport. We had a productive discussion today about how we can work together with Transport for London and the Greater London Authority to make this a reality.

"Investment in our transport network – from both Richmond Council and Transport for London – is critical to ensuring our borough remains accessible, safe, and fit for the future."

The visit was part of the Mayor of London's Big Community Transport Tour – launched last month – which aims to engage London's diverse communities on how the capital's transport network can best meet their needs.

Richmond Council highlighted the need for:

• Improved bus and train services in Hampton, Ham, and Whitton, where public transport remains limited
• Smarter traffic management at key junctions, including Percy Road, Powder Mill Lane, and Hospital Bridge Road, to reduce congestion
• Safer walking and cycling routes, particularly along the A316 corridor, to encourage active travel

Seb Dance, Deputy Mayor for Transport, said: "It was great to be in Richmond today to meet with the council and local community stakeholders, to discuss how we can work together to improve transport links in the borough.

"The Big Community Transport Tour is a great opportunity to get out to communities, especially in outer London, to find out first-hand how we can best serve them and build a better London for all."

The visit also covered the persistent structural issues of Hammersmith Bridge, with local councillors and MPs highlighting the interim transport solutions needed to keep Richmond's communities connected while long-term works continue.

Richmond's commitment to sustainable transport was on display as the group toured School Street treatments and cargo bike parking bays, showcasing the borough's innovative approach to greener travel.

This visit reinforced the shared ambition of Richmond Council and London's transport leaders to deliver better, fairer, and more sustainable transport for those who live, work, and visit the borough.

Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Richmond Council Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Services Committee, said: "Richmond is not just calling for change – we are leading the way with innovative solutions.

"We were the first borough in the UK to introduce a School Street entry treatment, making streets around schools safer for children and reducing unnecessary car journeys. Our cargo bike schemes, active travel initiatives, and commitment to safer cycling infrastructure show what is possible.

"With the right investment, we can build on this progress and make Richmond a model for sustainable transport across London."

In the past year, Richmond Council and Transport for London (TfL) have invested more than £1.2 million in a range of transport initiatives locally, including the Strategic Cycle Network, School Street treatments, safer pedestrian crossings, and a borough-wide 20mph programme.

Richmond Council will continue working closely with TfL and the Greater London Authority to secure the investment needed to drive real improvements for residents.

Councillor Roberts added: "Richmond is ready to play its part, and we look forward to working with TfL and City Hall to ensure our residents get the transport network they deserve."