Local people invited to help shape public space improvements to historic St John Street

From Monday, 4 November to Sunday, 15 December 2024, Islington Council is looking to hear local people’s views on their proposals to transform St John Street into a greener, healthier, and more welcoming space for all.

The planned improvements aim to create an accessible, inviting space, reduce traffic, and enhance the area's natural and historical features. Key features of the proposals include:

• Increased greening – New trees and planting to enhance biodiversity, reduce flood risk, and create a more pleasant atmosphere for local people and visitors alike
• 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
• Traffic reduction – Reduced motor traffic via the Charterhouse Street junction, making the area safer and quieter while creating more space for walking, cycling, and wheeling
• People-friendly spaces – Widened pavements and improved crossings to create a more accessible environment for people of all ages and abilities
• Dedicated cycle track – A new cycle lane to support safe and easy cycling for everyone
• Historical interpretation – Adding historical details and interpretive elements that celebrate the area’s rich past

Cllr Rowena Champion, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Environment, Air Quality, and Transport, said: “We’re committed to working closely with the local community to create vibrant, people-friendly streets. These improvements to St John Street will help to create attractive, accessible space for all, making it safer for people walking, wheeling and cycling. St John’s Street has a historical significance to this area, and we want to ensure that it is a well-used space today as it was way back when, and this project aims to pay homage to that.

"We look forward to hearing from local people and businesses, and everyone who passes through St John Street. Your insights are essential to making this project a success, so if you live in, work in, or travel through the area, we encourage you to share your views.”

The proposals for improved public space on St John Street reflect Islington Council’s vision for a greener, healthier, and more equal borough. Local people and businesses can view the proposals and provide feedback through a dedicated online portal or at scheduled in-person sessions.