Boris Johnson Announces New Schemes to Make London More Attractive

The mayor of London, Boris Johnson, announced today that he would lay plans to beautify the capital, as well as raise its competitive edge as a tourist destination. The mayor expressed fears that London could be facing a mass exodus of its wealthy residents due to newer, increased taxes.

In his announcement, Boris Johnson defended his £220m proposal which would, as he put it, transform London into a series of ‘oases’. Johnson’s current vision is to turn some of London’s tourist spaces into 50 or so projects which would redesign and re-envision specific streets, which would become public squares such as parks, waterways, and other ‘greener’, more pleasant spaces for tourists and residents.

The mayor continued, explaining that he would like to see London’s public spaces more open and unambiguous by removing unecessary traffic lights and railings, and adding parks and plazas. The mayor went as far as to suggest pedestrian crossings, in some instances, be removed along with some bike paths and pavements.

These plans were highlighted in a new package of documents in which the mayor explains his ideas for the streets of London, and how it will be better served by becoming more attractive. Many of the outlined plans are already underway in one form or another. Such schemes include a complete overhaul of Leicester Square and Oxford Circus, being handled by the Westminster council.

Some of the projects will be covered somewhat by a new £180m package being provided by the Transport for London budget and over the next three years will be implemented. Additionally the London Development Agency will give another £40m for 30 other projects including waterside spaces, and new public places on the shores of the Thames.