News

Islington Council has taken action to protect the borough’s high streets after the Government brought in new planning rules making it easier for property developers to turn commercial properties into expensive homes.

Islington has announced that it is set to work with the local community to transform the Sobell Leisure Centre into a facility that people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy.

The council is set to take the difficult decision not to reinstate the Sobell Leisure Centre ice rink. Here, Cllr Nurullah Turan, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Health and Social Care, explains why.

Islington Council is set to invite local people to help create an inclusive programme of activities at the new Sobell Leisure Centre, so that people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy the huge benefits of sport and physical activity.

Landlords of more than 5,000 homes must register for a license and ensure their tenants have good quality housing or face prosecution, under a new Islington Council scheme. 

Last year, Islington Council committed £10million to transforming shared spaces on estates across the borough through its Thriving Neighbourhoods programme. Over 200 projects have been funded so far and work has already begun to improve playgrounds, recycling areas, landscaping, accessibility, and seating at different locations in Islington. 

Islington Council now has 13 Green Flags for its park and green spaces, having retained ten won in previous years, and gained three new awards. 

Working with the Terence MacSwiney Committee, Islington Council has unveiled a plaque dedicated to Michael Collins, an Irish Nationalist leader who campaigned and fought for Irish independence in the early 20th Century.

Archway has been designated by the Mayor of London as a Creative Enterprise Zone, a status which affirms the council’s commitment to boosting the area’s creative economy.

Islington Council is set to buy back 100 homes for young adults leaving care, people sleeping rough, and families who have had to flee Afghanistan and Ukraine. 

The trial low-traffic neighbourhood (LTN) in St Mary’s Church has been made permanent, after monitoring data and resident feedback revealed it has helped create greener, healthier, and more welcoming streets for all.     

A “vital part of Islington’s safety net” for residents in crisis marked a milestone 10th anniversary this week, looking to the future while marking the £20.5million of short-term relief grants it has provided so far.