Pedestrianisation plans for Story Street are charging ahead in Cally revamp, bringing further roadworks and disruption to the area.
This work is part of the Council’s plans to make The Cally Islington’s second liveable neighbourhood.
A shop owner on Caledonian Road said: “We just want these potholes and roads to be fixed; the road is a mess.”
Caledonian Cllr Paul Convery said: “I know there’s people who may say ‘Oh why don’t you fix the pavements and potholes instead.’ Well, we have re-laid pavements on the east side of Caledonian Road and, in April, will begin renewing almost all the pavements from just south of Copenhagen Street all the way to the railway bridge.”
The improvements to The Cally aim to realise the five themes of the We Are Cally Community Plan, including creating more opportunities for children and families, supporting local businesses and employment, fostering community connections, enhancing green spaces, and improving health and air quality.
Faiz, who has run the fruit and veg market stall on Story Street for nearly 15 years, has been repositioned to Tilloch Street during the works.
He said: “It has impacted my business too much, and now we are struggling. It will be hard when we move back to Story Street as customers will have to get used to it again.”
Caledonian Road has seen extensive road works, road closures, and bus diversions over the last few weeks following the major flood on Caledonian Road, three weeks ago.
Convery said: “I strongly support this and Cally Councillors have been closely involved in the design.
“There has been extensive public consultation which showed considerable public support.”
He added: “The reason is to create a much better pedestrian environment and give the Cally High Street a boost…it will be used for market stalls.”
Islington Council has already pedestrianised Tilloch Street and Freeling Street and has started works on Story Street.
Cllr Convery said: “Cars driving through Story Street have always been a bit hazardous for customers standing in the roadway.”
Islington Council is investing £1.25 million to deliver projects in Cally over the next few years.
They received an additional grant of £350,000 from the Greater London Authority as part of the Good Growth Fund.
