Businesses believe there should be a clear set of traffic management rules for Leicester Square.  In response to their concerns, we commissioned Four Communications to undertake a consultation with businesses to understand their requirements for deliveries and access.

The consultation was a three-way process, incorporating a questionnaire, group interviews and a final presentation with Q & A.

We received a 27% response to the questionnaire and 14 businesses were represented at the group interviews.  14% of all businesses in the area attended the final presentation.

The following top priorities were agreed across all sessions:

• There should be a clear and unbreakable set of management rules for the Square

• The delivery of the management rules should be overseen by one management group/body

• The day-to-day delivery of the management rules should be provided by a Square Marshall

• Vehicular access to the Square should close at 11am

The key recommendations were:

• Businesses should be able to apply in advance for vehicle access to the Square outside permitted hours in extenuating circumstances e.g. premieres, special events, and business closing

• There should be designated spaces for couriers to park outside the permitted access hours

• The current waste disposal scheme is effective, however fines for improper use should be imposed

Following the consultation, these priorities were presented to WCC for discussion and action.