Marble Arch BID has worked with Transport for London (TfL) to bring a set of new benches to Edgware Road, Bayswater Road and Cumberland Gate.

TfL is committed to making walking a more attractive and safer experience. As well as making sure the streets are safe and people have accessible crossing facilities and safer junctions, it is also important to create more walkable, accessible and inclusive streets to make sure that people who need them have the ability to rest where they can. This is particularly the case for older people, or those with limited mobility, to people travelling with children and shopping. This is a commitment that is also included in the Mayor of London’s Transport Strategy.

In February 2025 TfL consulted with local councillors, community groups and charities working with older and disabled people on proposals to bring more seating to Edgware Road. This followed consultation and site visits with the Metropolitan Police’s design out crime officers to explore locations earlier that month and to make sure that locations were chosen sensitively.

Feedback from local older peoples’ groups and stakeholders who support older peoples’ housing indicated that the provision of benches would be a significant benefit to them and others who may need to break up their walking journeys. Benches help when making local shopping and recreation trips for older people in the area, giving people a more enjoyable experience and increasing their independence. When trips are planned for older people in care, they are risk assessed for stopping points and these benches would support that activity too, potentially opening up new walking routes for those who cannot walk long distances without an opportunity to stop and take a breath.

The locations were also chosen based on the Edgware Road Placemaking Strategy, feedback from Westminster Council’s High Streets work, which recommended more places to sit on Edgware Road, and made sure that the proposals were in keeping with Westminster Council’s newly adopted Public Realm guidance on seating.

The benches are designed to be comfortable and hard-wearing and have been placed where there are gaps in seating in the area, as well as locations that people can enjoy pausing:

• Cumberland Gate (northwest) – two benches
• Bayswater Road (northeast) – two benches
• Site of Tyburn Tree plaque – two seats
• Edgware Road between Upper Berkeley Street and Seymour Street – one bench
• Edgware Road at Nutford Place – one bench

These add to seating locations at Burwood Place, the corner of Sussex Gardens, and alongside the rain gardens north and south of the Marylebone Flyover.

The new benches were installed in the first week of October 2025. The BID’s Street Team will be keeping an eye on the new benches and will ensure that they are refreshed and kept in good condition.

I am pleased to see the installation of new benches along Edgware Road, a project that reflects a thoughtful and inclusive approach to urban planning. These additions will serve as a valuable resource for all members of the community, particularly older residents and individuals with mobility challenges. Having worked extensively in this sector, I have witnessed how even a brief opportunity to rest can significantly enhance wellbeing and reduce the risk of fatigue-related incidents. I commend all those involved in bringing this initiative to fruition.

Pooja Gosavi, Activities Manager, Abri

These benches provide essential resting spots for older adults who may have reduced mobility or tire easily. Knowing that there are places to sit can encourage these residents to walk outdoors, promoting cardiovascular health and joint mobility. At the Penfold Hub we recognise how vital it is for older people to remain active and engaged in their community.

Denis Kane, Penfold Community Hub Project Manager