A SOUTHAMPTON street that had a controversial £1.5m revamp and was dubbed the “naked street” has picked up a national design award.

The city’s improvements to London Road saw a European- style design which stripped back road signs and introduced informal crossings to improve safety and boost the café culture.

The revamp was met with concern two years ago by motoring and driving groups as the crossings, which involve a wider footpath and raised road surface, did not include traffic lights or zebra crossing road paintings.

But since the installation the city council say there has been a reduction in the amount of traffic, vehicle speeds and serious injuries along the route, which is home to a number of businesses, cafes and late- night venues.

The design, which featured wider pavements for al fresco dining, new street lights and trees, saw off 27 others in the UK to win the prestigious Urban Transport Design Award from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.

Councillor Matthew Dean, Cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “I am delighted that the London Road scheme has won this national award. A once failing road has been transformed into a fitting gateway to the city.”

The scheme has been chosen by the Department of Transport as an example of best practice.