Our proposals to create a new link connecting White City and North Kensington
Imperial is excited to share our proposals to create a new public link beneath the West London Railway Line at White City.
The new East-West Link will create a publicly accessible pedestrian and cycle connection between White City and North Kensington, which will open up a direct route linking the two communities together and improve access through better walking and cycling links.
Our proposals will deliver:
- A key piece of public infrastructure linking communities in White City and North Kensington
- Improved access to local facilities, amenities and public spaces
- A well-lit, secure and maintained route with clear lines of sight
- An opportunity for new public art that will create a vibrant, welcoming space
- An attractive design with planting around both entrances
Our public consultation has now closed. But you can still express your support for the plans here.
Location
An East-West connection beneath the railway line between the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham (LBHF) and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) formed part of the Greater London Authority’s ‘White City Opportunity Area Planning Framework’ (OAPF) in 2013.
This document described an East-West link as ‘essential to link communities from the east in RBKC with the White City development area and transport connections.’
Imperial are now looking to deliver on this long-standing commitment associated with White City Campus through the creation of the East- West Link. This will unlock a critical connection between communities in White City and North Kensington, improving access through better walking and cycling links.
A new direct route between White City and North Kensington
Currently there is no convenient pedestrian or cycle access between the two communities.
The closest points across the West London Railway Line are 10 minutes north on Latimer Road, and 15 minutes south at Shepherd’s Bush, which adds significant time to an average journey. The proposed link will open up a new direct route between White City and North Kensington, linking the two communities together.
An attractive design
We have worked with internationally renowned landscape architects West8 to design the East-West link.
The entrances will feature rounded corners, to improve visibility and ensure the link integrates with its surroundings. Planting around both entrances will create a natural visual appeal.
A varied selection of plants will be chosen, expressing a range of colours and adding to the dynamism and inviting nature of the new link.
The link also offers the opportunity to integrate public art which will enliven the space and create an inviting connection between White City and North Kensington.
Opportunity for Public Art
We are keen to draw inspiration from local communities for our public art, as well as reflecting the innovative and scientific focus of Imperial. We want to enrich this pedestrian route and encourage people to feel welcome.
As we develop ideas for public art, we would like to incorporate the views and voices of local people, enabling the artists we work with to reflect the interests of our diverse neighbouring communities in their proposals.
What's coming up
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Target planning submission | October 2024 |
| Anticipated planning decision | Early 2025 |
| Target start on site | Late 2025 |
| Target opening | Late 2026 |
If you have any questions regarding the consultation or proposals, please email us at skaur@conciliocomms.com or phone us on 0800 193 0884