The proposed redesign of Peckham library square with a cycle “highway” running right through it, has thrown up pedestrian safety concerns.

Some residents say that the plan would mean cyclists dangerously criss-crossing a route that is popular with pedestrians, shoppers and library members. Spheron Architects have proposed a cycle highway through the square.

Residents say this would naturally mean a marked increase in the number of cyclists crossing pedestrian paths. This, they complain would deter people from using a space that is meant to be multi-purpose. Concerns have also been expressed about the cost of the project. Residents say the money could be better used on other things to benefit the community.

Spheron Architects say they want to make the library square more modern and able to be used for performances and other events as well as for a street market. The plan also includes improved lighting and other features to enhance security.

But locals are not convinced and some complain that the money could be better used on something else to benefit the community. Plans to make the area more recreational have also been criticised. One local business owner said that residents would not appreciate the library square becoming a “hot spot for dealers and junkies with people playing music very loudly day and night.” He added that there should be no seating at all in the redesigned square in order to deter anti-social behaviour.

The proposal is currently up for feedback on the Commonplace forum. The architects have also held in-person open sessions to allow the community to have its say.

Peckham library, designed by Will Alsop of Alsop Sparch architects, threw open its doors in 2000. It won the prestigious Stirling Prize in November 2000, becoming, Architects’ Journal noted in 2013, “the first, and to date only, library to win British architecture’s highest honour”. The building’s coloured glass walls allows natural light into the space and has made the library very popular with locals.