Highbury Corner: not what it was…

Copy of an email sent to the Mayor of London concerning Highbury Corner

• SEVERAL years ago you formally opened the redesigned Highbury Corner which included a pedestrianised area and new accessible green space for Islington.

New trees were planted to replace those that had been felled during the construction process.

Sadly the reality today does not live up to the promises made.

Most of the young trees planted in the pedestrian area (without any tree guards or other protection) have been snapped off and removed.

Despite signage, cyclists regularly use the pedestrian area as a short-cut and mopeds use it as a convenient parking area when waiting to pick up food deliveries.

Many of the tree pits have been empty for over a year and there is no indication of when Transport for London plans to replant them (despite Islington’s tree officers making numerous requests).

The damaged inner wall of the cycle lane has also not been repaired for more than 12 months and is covered with graffiti. The area has an air of neglect, is prone to flooding, and air pollution is high.

The Highbury Fields Association would like to help you restore some of the amenity to this area.

We are aware that TfL is experiencing a funding crisis and has many competing priorities, but we would be delighted to pay for new tree guards if you were willing to plant new trees in the seven empty tree pits on and around Highbury Corner.

I attach photographs to show you the many issues in the area. Please let us know how we can help you restore Highbury Corner.

KATE POTHALINGAM
Chair, Highbury Fields Association