Drastic changes are needed to make a Haringey road safe for pedestrians and cyclists, according to the Liberal Democrats.

The opposition group has criticised the Labour-run council’s proposals for Wightman Road, Harringay, claiming they privilege traffic over other road users and calling for a re-think.

Proposed changes to the road include the replacement of pavement parking with on-street parking, the creation of so called ‘informal’ crossings for pedestrians, and the removal of ‘pedestrian islands’ that can pose a risk to cyclists.

But Cllr Luke Cawley-Harrison, Haringey Liberal Democrat transport spokesperson, called for bolder measures – including proper segregated bike lanes and cycle parking.

He also suggested scrapping informal pedestrian crossings and installing traffic filters such as bollards to give priority to cyclists and pedestrians.

Cllr Cawley-Harrison said: “Taking vehicles off the pavement will be good for people with visual or mobility impairments, or using wheelchairs and pushchairs, but the council needs to take braver, bolder steps to prioritise active travel such as walking, cycling and via kick scooters.

“We should no longer be focussing on how to improve road networks for motor vehicle travel, but rather how roads can carry the required volume of people safely and healthily in a way that works in harmony with the local neighbourhood.”

A spokeswoman for Haringey Council said: “Residents’ views are important to us, and that is why we have encouraged people to have their say in the consultation.

“We are now considering these views and expect to put our recommendations to the cabinet Member later this year.”

The consultation on the changes to Wightman Road is now closed.