Nigel Farage’s campaign trail took an awkward turn this weekend when the Reform UK leader was confronted over his perceived "hypocrisy" on traffic policies during a visit to a London park.
The incident occurred in Greenwich Park, where Farage was filming a segment. A member of the public approached him, questioning his vehement opposition to Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs). The critic pointedly referenced recent reports that Farage himself had been seen cycling through an LTN in Richmond Park.
The Richmond Park Sighting
Just days before the Greenwich confrontation, the prominent Brexiteer was reportedly spotted enjoying a cycle ride through Richmond Park. This particular park has implemented traffic-calming measures that restrict vehicle access on certain roads, a policy similar to the LTNs Farage has frequently criticised as an "attack on motorists."
This apparent contradiction formed the basis of the challenge he faced. The member of the public accused him of opposing policies for the public that he seems happy to utilise himself.
Farage's Defence and Ongoing Campaign
In response to the accusation, Farage did not deny cycling in Richmond Park. Instead, he defended his position by drawing a distinction between Royal Parks, like Richmond and Greenwich, and LTNs implemented on public roads in residential areas.
He argued that the traffic measures in Royal Parks are designed to protect the parkland environment and enhance the experience of pedestrians and cyclists, whereas he views street-level LTNs as unnecessarily disruptive.
This park-based polemic comes as Farage continues to campaign heavily against LTNs, a central theme of his party's platform. He has described them as a tool that punishes ordinary people and has vowed to fight against their expansion.
Whether this incident will impact public perception of his stance remains to be seen, but it has certainly highlighted the heated debate surrounding urban transport policy in the capital.
