Highbury West will soon be introducing People Friendly Streets. From November, several unnamed streets will be closed to stop traffic travelling from Holloway Road through Highbury West, to Hackney or Finsbury.
“A series of roads throughout Highbury West will be closed such that all motorised through traffic will be prevented,” councillor Andy Hull said. “These streets are full of rat-running traffic that we could do without. It isn’t local people, and we want cleaner, greener, safer streets for all our residents.”
Local residents will still be able to reach their homes and businesses by car, and buses and emergency vehicles will continue to have access to the areas.
Islington will enforce the rules in Highbury West through traffic cameras and fixed penalty notices – which can fine £30-£300 depending on severity – keeping physical barriers to a minimum.
There will be a 12-month review of the new regulations with public feedback welcome, but the council has said it is committed to the idea.
Hull added: “We’re planning to stick to our guns. The consultation we did was resounding in its support for the plan. It’s not just good for the environment, it’s a social justice measure as well.”
81% of journeys in the Islington borough are made by walking, cycling, or public transport, according to the council, and local resident Josh Ward-Loughran is excited by the plan: “I think it’s a great idea, which will really let people enjoy their streets.”
