YESTERDAY, April 24, a protest march was held in Ealing against the Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs), which started at Blondin Park and ended at Perceval House.

One Ealing, the anti-LTN group that organised the march claims there were more than 3,000 participants present, with some estimates reaching as high as 5,000.

Better Ealing Streets on the other hand, a pro-LTN group, claims that by its own count that number didn't exceed 1,500.

With no accurate way of determining the exact number of protestors, it's impossible to tell what estimation is more accurate.

Speaking after the event, one of the organisers, Lorna O'Driscoll, told Nub News: "I'm kind of blown away by the people of Ealing and how they continuously support us and come out and stand up for what they believe in, which is essentially the democratic process.

"It's been a really difficult and challenging nine months for everyone; we've been going through this extraordinary time with the global pandemic, and then to have something as bizarre as LTNs dropped upon us was both confusing and bewildering.

"There was no baseline data given, there were no reasons given, or indeed they kept changing the reasons given, it started with COVID, then it was obesity and it ended up as a climate crisis.

"So we don't have any proper statement as to why the LTNs were introduced and indeed not why this area.

"This area (LTN21 – Northfields) in the whole Borough of Ealing is the least polluted area, so it just genuinely doesn't make sense.

"We've asked for this information time and time again, we've asked for the baseline data.

"We're confused as to what a trial means, how can you measure something when you don't have a starting point.

"They've got this consultation and asked residents to use this Commonplace tool, and the average figure against the schemes is 76%, a figure they continuously ignore, even though it was their own research.

"We have been left with no choice, it's not something I enjoy doing marching on a Saturday, we're all busy people and want to enjoy this lovely sunshine, especially as things are opening up from COVID again.

"But it is a really important issue, the Council is ignoring residents, they are starting here, and God knows what else they'll do unless we stand up to them."

Better Ealing Streets released a statement prior to the march and said: "Since the introduction of the LTN schemes to reduce journeys by car, we have seen ever-growing numbers of residents walking and cycling locally, which is not only better for our personal health, but for our community and the planet.

"This is why the Conservative government, Labour's London Mayor and councils run by many parties, including our local Labour council, continue to fund and support them.

"While there may be some who oppose LTNs, every serious independent study has shown the schemes have a majority support – and that support grows over time."

"Removing LTNs would just cause more congestion, more air pollution and make our roads more unsafe."

An Ealing Council spokesperson said: "We are fully aware that many local people have strong views on low traffic neighbourhoods, both for and against, which is why we encourage everyone to have their say on via our online Commonplace website.

"LTNs in Ealing are currently trial schemes and no final decision has been made on their future, with all options remaining open.

"Resident feedback, as well as a wide range of data still being gathered will be used when assessing any final decision at the end of this trial period."

To have your say, either for or against the schemes, click HERE.