We object to the proposal lodged at Richmond Council to close Common Road at both ends to turn it into a Pedestrian and Cycle route. Parents coming from Barnes use Common Road as a shortcut at least 4 times a day for their school runs to Putney schools. Such a closure would become prohibitive for schools and sports clubs as it would add at least 10-15 minutes each way to school runs at peak times. It would substantially increase traffic at both the Rocks Lane end and the Lower Richmond Road/Putney Bridge End, adversely affecting all schools in both Putney and in Barnes, as well as affecting Barnes shops, Barnes sports grounds and the Wetlands Centre.

We urge the Council to stop the proposed closure and find alternative solutions.