Local MP Lynne Featherstone has welcomed a decision by Transport for London (TfL) to conduct a site visit to discuss the controversial location of Highgate Village’s main bus stand, following a meeting she had with top London transport boss Peter Hendy.

Lynne Featherstone, along with the Highgate Society, have been pressing TfL to consider the issue for months, as something that could have a major positive impact – right in the heart of the village.

Now, in response to a direct plea by Ms Featherstone, Mr Hendy and London Transport officials have agreed to the meeting. Lynne Featherstone hopes that they can be persuaded that moving the stand will have a huge positive impact on local businesses and the community.

Ms Featherstone and the Lib Dems want the Village’s vital 271 bus route extended to East Finchley, so that it connects better with other local services and East Finchley Tube. This will not only create more joined-up bus services, but will allow the removal of the bus stand, making Highgate’s Pond Square a much more pleasant public place for local people to enjoy.

Lynne Featherstone comments:

“I am pleased that TfL are beginning to address this issue. We will use it as an opportunity to show them how these really sensible plans would benefit the village, and hopefully they will see sense.”

Highgate councillor Neil Williams adds:

“It’s a positive step. We will be keeping up the pressure on London Buses to extend the 271 route, as we need better bus links for Highgate. We will also be working for a great improvement to a public space that is right at the heart of the village. It should be possible to put an end to buses sitting there, chugging out fumes and blocking the view. How could TfL refuse?”