Transport for London (TfL) has introduced new changes to transform Bishopsgate, London, UK, into a safer place that prioritises walking and cycling.

New traffic restrictions were put in place between Shoreditch and London Bridge in response to the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

The restrictions will create more space for walking while improving cycling conditions and will allow people to maintain social distancing.

Temporary restrictions on Bishopsgate and Gracechurch Street will be in operation on weekdays. To provide more foot space for pedestrians, wider footways have been constructed.

Two short sections of road, including Middlesex Street to Liverpool Street and Leadenhall Street to Fenchurch Street, will have restricted vehicle access.

Other corridors will have access for servicing and taxis.

When in practice, the measures will reduce motor traffic, minimising travel duration and avoiding overcrowding.

Under the Streetspace programme, TfL has upgraded cycle infrastructure, constructed more than 16,500m² of pavement space and installed 1,540 extra cycle parking spaces across London.

The infrastructure development will relieve pressure on the city’s public transport.

Furthermore, TfL and Greenwich Council will transform roads for cycling between Greenwich and Woolwich, including an overhaul of the Angerstein roundabout.

TfL Investment Delivery Planning director Alexandra Batey said: “As people return to school, work and leisure across London, it’s absolutely vital that streets are able to cope with increased demand for walking and cycling if we are to avoid a car-led recovery from coronavirus.

“We’re running near-normal levels of public transport services and are working hard to deliver extra space for walking and cycling right across the capital.

“The opening of the first walking and cycling priority corridor along Bishopsgate in central London today is a significant step forward for our Streetspace programme and will make a real difference to people moving around this busy corridor between Shoreditch and London Bridge.”