Residents of Portobello Road, long celebrated as one of the UK’s most picturesque streets by Condé Nast Traveller, say tough new anti-terror measures are leaving them feeling “trapped in their own homes.”
Concrete barriers and strict traffic bans have been introduced along the famous market street in London, with cars prohibited between 10am and 4pm for three to seven days a week, depending on the section. The move, backed by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea on advice from the Metropolitan Police counterterrorism team, aims to prevent vehicle attacks during busy trading hours.
But locals say the safety drive has come at a cost.
Patrick Somers, a resident, claims those living on the street were given only days’ notice before the restrictions came into force. While he supports stronger security, he argues the approach has gone too far.
“We absolutely back anti-terror measures of course we do,” he said. “We want people to feel safe and to enjoy this beautiful area. But there has to be balance. You can’t just tell people to lock themselves in and not live their lives.”
Safety Measures Spark Backlash from Residents and Traders
Concerns have also been raised about access for emergency services, taxis and deliveries. In one incident, an ambulance crew responding to a child struggling to breathe reportedly had to park behind barriers and carry equipment on foot. Residents say that with taxis barred during restriction hours, even hospital visits and airport journeys have become complicated.
Traders are feeling the pressure too. Antiques dealer Geoff Knowles says the council suggested businesses simply adjust their hours but for many, that’s unrealistic. Market sellers often arrive at dawn and leave early afternoon, and some rely on keeping vehicles close to their stalls.
“You can’t expect someone selling fruit and veg to haul sacks of potatoes hundreds of yards every time they restock,” he said.
In response, the council insists emergency services were consulted and that blue badge bays and designated drop-off points have been added to nearby streets. Officials maintain that the temporary traffic order is designed to protect residents, traders and visitors during peak market hours, and say discussions are ongoing to shape a possible permanent plan.
For now, however, many who call Portobello Road home say the effort to keep the public safe has left them questioning whether their own freedom of movement has been sacrificed in the process.
