The shortcut would have significantly cut walking time between Sutherland Road and Blackhorse Road Station, reports Marco Marcelline
A pedestrian shortcut between new residential developments in Sutherland Road and Blackhorse Road Station has been shelved, the Greater London Authority (GLA) has said.
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan approved a plan to explore the feasibility of the shortcut, which would have been built on GLA owned empty land between Blackhorse Lane and Sutherland Road, known as Blackhorse Yard, in March 2024.
The approval was part of a £150,000 fund for ‘meanwhile’ uses at Blackhorse Yard until its redevelopment into flats in late 2027.
Documents published in October on London.gov mention “the provision of a shortcut, potentially shortening journey times to Blackhorse Road tube station for Sutherland Road residents”.
However, when the Echo asked what the status of the shortcut was, the GLA stated the “presence of unsafe structures and ground conditions on some areas of the site” meant it has not been possible to deliver it.
The spokesperson added: “However, providing a connection between Blackhorse Lane and Sutherland Road will be a key priority of any future long-term redevelopment proposals for the site.”
Currently, Sutherland Road residents have to use Sutherland Path to reach Blackhorse Road Station, a walk which can take up to twelve minutes.
The proposed shortcut would have run from Burnt Faith Brandy House, in 57 Sutherland Road, to Blackhorse Lane, near Hooker’s Road.
A parcel of Blackhorse Yard has been used for a community sauna and garden, which opened to the public in September 2025 and will remain until the site is redeveloped into flats.
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