Breaking ground on St John Street transformation

Supported by the Bunhill and Clerkenwell Councillors, this project is part of our wider plan to create streets that put health, environment, and community first.  

In late 2024 we held a public consultation with residents and businesses. Now, we’re ready to move forward with the project, which will upgrade the stretch of St John Street between Charterhouse Street and St John's Lane. 

The area has a rich history, including being the site of the old Hicks Hall sessions house and a key point on the Great North Road leading to Smithfield. Our designs celebrate this heritage while creating a more welcoming and sustainable space for everyone. 

Here’s what’s coming: 

• Greener spaces – New trees and planting to enhance biodiversity, reduce flood risk, and create a more welcoming space  

• Additional seating – More benches and seating areas to encourage community interaction and provide rest stops 

• Benefits for local businesses – A peaceful space for those working in the area to enjoy lunch breaks, adding a welcoming spot to relax within the community 

• Safer streets – Reduced vehicle traffic via the Charterhouse Street junction, making the area safer and quieter while creating more space for walking, cycling, and wheeling 

• Improved access – Widened pavements and improved crossings to create a more accessible environment for people of all ages and abilities 

• Better cycling routes – A new cycle lane to support safe and easy cycling for everyone 
• Honouring history – Adding historical details and interpretive elements that celebrate the area’s rich past 

Councillor Rowena Champion, Executive Member for Environment, Air Quality and Transport, said: “We’re really looking forward to starting work on St John Street. These changes will make the area safer, greener, and more enjoyable for everyone—and they’ll help us tackle the climate crisis by encouraging more environmentally friendly ways of getting around.” 

Debbie Akehurst – Chief Executive, Central District Alliance BID said: “We’re happy that the St John Street project in Clerkenwell is about to begin. We’re glad to support it. The changes will make the area safer for people walking and will add green space and places to sit for workers, visitors, and locals to enjoy.” 

Ross Phillips, Sustainable Transport Manager and Healthy Streets Everyday II project lead at Cross River Partnership added: “Cross River Partnership is extremely pleased to be working with Central District Alliance and the London Borough of Islington to transform St. John Street, through the Healthy Streets Everyday II programme. We can look forward to less congested streets, fewer polluting vehicles, more green space, and vibrant pedestrian spaces. This will support more Londoners with safe, clean, green outdoor space to walk, wheel, scoot and cycle.” 

Residents and businesses will be kept informed throughout the construction period, with updates available on the project’s dedicated page: letstalk.islington.gov.uk/st-john-street