Beatles’ Abbey Road crossing could get traffic warden to protect fans

Tourists flocking to one of Britain’s favourite musical landmarks to recreate the Beatles’ Abbey Road crossing could see the addition of a “lollipop lady” to their holiday snaps. Westminster Council has raised safety fears over the “thousands and thousands” of people who visit the zebra crossing in St John’s Wood, north London, made famous by the band in 1969.

Safety concerns at the crossing are being discussed and we are looking at the options. We’re looking at what the best thing is to do. The council is, to some extent, responsible for keeping people safe.

Westminster City councillor Lindsey Hall

In some cases, fans are putting themselves at risk of frustrated drivers who often struggle to make it over the crossing because of the constant stream of pedestrians attempting to recreate the image. Buses carrying tourists can also cause traffic chaos by double-parking or parking on yellow lines. Westminster Council said it is discussing options to manage the busy traffic flow, including the possibility of employing a lollipop lady or man.

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