We’re pleased to report that a new and fantastic bit of cycling infrastructure has just popped up in Westminster – tulip wands! They’ve been installed on Sussex Gardens and are an absolute joy to behold and causing all sorts of delight, as we discovered.
They’ve been designed by architect Luke Tozer and are a new and welcome additional protection for the C27 cycleway on Sussex Gardens, which funnels riders to/from Edgware Road and near Hyde Park.
We recently visited them and everyone seems happy about their arrival, even those who have been fitting them. The photo below shows the lovely Mike and Kieran who were doing a sterling job installing them. They noted that they are more robust and easier to replace/maintain, with a larger base with reflective materials, so they acted like a cat’s eye at night, as well.
Also impressed were cyclists. Feedback included saying they're ‘beautiful’ & made for ‘a more enjoyable ride’. A female rider agreed and appreciated more protection. Bruce, a fitness instructor (pictured) said the tulips ‘add colour and are a great idea’. But what about the local residents?
Tanya lives right on Sussex Gardens & Temi works in her building and we caught them both excitedly taking a closer look. Each thought the tulips were an appealing new, London feature, as well as more helpful to drivers (Tanya drives in the area, regularly).
The tulips received an official unveiling by the Lord Mayor of Westminster on the 25th, as part of the London Bike Festival.
The wands are now open for consultation. The consultation closes on 15 July 2025.
A huge hurray, thanks and well done to Westminster Council for putting a smile on so many faces with the new tulip wands. More protections for cyclists, greater visibility for drivers and lots of fun for everyone!
Westminster needs YOU!
We need your help at this exciting time of change in attitude towards active travel! You don’t have to live in Westminster to join our local campaign group. If you cycle in or through Westminster, or wish you or your loved ones felt safe to do so, we could use your help. We need more active members to help with whatever you enjoy doing - creating flyers - writing content for our newsletter or website - social media - organising events or meetings - marshaling bike rides - and much more.
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