The controversial Mini-Holland scheme in Walthamstow Village has been shortlisted for a design award.

The cycle scheme has been named as a regional finalist in the 2017 Civic Trust Awards, which recognises achievement in architecture, planning and design.

Mini-Holland has been handed 10 awards since Waltham Forest council began the £27 million project in 2014.

Cllr Clyde Loakes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment said: “I am extremely proud that we have been shortlisted for this award.

“We set out to make Walthamstow Village safer, more attractive and accessible for everyone, and I think we have achieved that.

“We also ensured that residents and businesses were kept informed and had the opportunity to have their say throughout the project.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Cllr Clyde Loakes and protesters at the Mini Holland launch in Walthamstow Village back in September.

The opening of Mini-Holland in Walthamstow Village was met with protests

“We have learnt a lot and there’s still room for improvement but to be shortlisted shows we’re definitely heading in the right direction.”

However, the scheme has proved divisive and road closures have drawn criticism for a perceived increase in emergency service response times and concerns for local business.

Its launch in Walthamstow Village in September 2015 was met by angry protests featuring scores of residents objecting to the road closures.

Protesters from campaign group E17 Streets 4 All carried a coffin marked with the words: “R.I.P Walthamstow Village” through Orford Road.

A further demonstration against closures outside Waltham Forest Town Hall in May was attended by more than 300 people.

The Civic Trust Awards scheme was established in 1959, and is the longest running independent built environment awards scheme in Europe.

Winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Guildhall in Winchester on March 10, 2017.