The City of London Corporation has unveiled new design options for the upcoming transformation of Fleet Street, marking a significant milestone in plans to create a more welcoming, accessible and sustainable environment in one of the capital’s most historic streets.

It is anticipated that, with numerous local development projects both in the pipeline and nearing completion, including the City Corporation’s flagship Police HQ and Courts building at Salisbury Square, daily footfall through the area will increase by around 40,000 people.

The £9.5m transformation is being led, funded and delivered by the City Corporation as part of its wider transport strategy, focused on improving connectivity, safety and the quality of the environment. The Fleet Street Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) has also provided valued support, helping to inform the project and reflect the priorities of local businesses, which stand to gain from the revitalised scheme.

Proposals include wider pavements, improved cycling provision, and the introduction of planting and seating to create a high-quality, attractive street environment.

Local business and community representatives’ feedback has been incorporated into two final designs, now open to public consultation.

Option 1 focuses on significantly improving conditions for walking, wheeling and cycling, with wider pavements, more extensive planting, seating and opportunities to relax. The proposed changes place greater emphasis on Fleet Street as a destination, with changes to how motor vehicle traffic travels through Fleet Street to enable the transformative change.

Option 2 also offers an increase in space for people walking, wheeling, and cycling, alongside some planting and seating opportunities, while maintaining all through traffic. It offers a more incremental shift towards a greener, more accessible Fleet Street, retaining much of its current function.

Running until 27 July 2026, the consultation will give residents, workers and visitors the opportunity to review the proposals and share their views via an online platform and at a series of local drop-in sessions.

Alderwoman Martha Grekos, Chair of the Fleet Street Area Working Group, said:

“Fleet Street is one of London’s most iconic and historic streets, and this project gives us a unique opportunity to reimagine it for the future. The design options we are bringing forward reflect valuable input from local businesses, residents and stakeholders, and demonstrate our ambition to create a greener, safer and more welcoming environment for everyone who uses this important route.

“I would encourage all those with an interest to take part in the consultation and help shape the next chapter for Fleet Street.”