TfL Apologizes for Data Error in Chiswick Roundabout Upgrade Proposal

Transport for London (TfL) has issued an apology for presenting inaccurate data to justify a £5 million upgrade project for the Hogarth Roundabout in Chiswick. The error came to light after local residents submitted Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, revealing a significant discrepancy in the reported collision rates.

Initially, TfL claimed that 30 motorcycle collisions occurred at the roundabout over an 18-month period from January 2022 to June 2023. However, the actual data showed only six collisions over a 36-month timeframe. This revelation has raised concerns about the necessity of the proposed changes, which include reducing the speed limit from 40mph to 30mph and increasing space for pedestrians and cyclists.

Jack Emsley, a Conservative councillor for Chiswick Homefields ward, described the mistake as "scandalous," stating that it has "eroded trust" in TfL. He emphasized the importance of accurate information in road safety consultations.

In response to the error, TfL has extended the consultation period by one week, until September 12, 2024. Penny Rees, TfL's head of Healthy Streets Investment, acknowledged the mistake but maintained that the Hogarth Roundabout still ranks among the top 10% of junctions in London in terms of road safety risk.

This incident follows a similar error in June 2024, when TfL had to update a safety review of "floating" bus stops after inaccuracies were discovered in collision data involving pedestrians and cyclists.

The proposed changes to the Hogarth Roundabout have also raised concerns for St Nicholas Church, a Grade II listed building with over 600 years of history in Chiswick. Father Simon Brandes, who has served as the church's priest for 17 years, fears that the remodeling will make access to the church extremely difficult for wedding cars and hearses.

"What frightens me is people will go elsewhere because so many drive here and the turn is so oblique and dangerous. Vehicles like hearses or wedding cars are simply too long to make the proposed bend in one go. They will have to inch their way round with a four point turn. I fear we will lose many funerals and weddings."

The Old Chiswick Protection Society, a local conservation group, also opposes the plans. Russell Harris KC, the society's president, stated that they consider the plans unworkable and have consulted a highways expert who shares their conclusion.

As TfL moves forward with the consultation process, the incident has highlighted the importance of accurate data in urban planning decisions and the need for transparency in public infrastructure projects.