Work under way to revitalise Archway Park

Work is under way on a £500,000 transformation of Archway Park that will make it more attractive to everyone, with new play and sports facilities and landscaping improvements.

Cllr Claudia Webbe, Islington Council’s executive member for environment and transport, visited the site recently to see how the work was coming along as the park’s concrete mounds were demolished.

The old play area and ball court have also been ripped up as part of the improvements to the park, which sits at the junction of St John’s Way and Archway Road. The park-keeper’s building will be demolished early next year.

The removal of the concrete mounds will allow views of the new play and recreational sports facilities from surrounding streets, which should attract more users, while a new footpath across the park and new lighting will encourage people to use the park as a regular walking route.

Cllr Webbe said: “We listened to what people wanted in Archway Park, and its transformation will create a space with something to offer for everyone, from residents old and young to those just visiting Archway.

“I am pleased to see the demolition work getting under way and look forward to visiting the revitalised park when it is finished next spring, and celebrating with the very community we are improving it for.”

The council undertook a series of consultation events with the community to gauge what people wanted from the park before designs were drawn up, including people living on nearby estates. This resulted in a much broader set of improvements to the park.

The revitalised park will feature a multi-use ball court, new play area, a concrete table tennis table, new lawn and seating, and general park improvements.

The improvements are being funded by Islington Council, charity the London Marathon Trust and Transport for London – via the Safer Routes To Estates programme.