2021 is due to see the roll-out of more LTNs 

• IT’S perfectly possible to agree with both of the following statements:

(a) LTNs, low traffic neighbourhoods, are a good thing as they will make our streets safer and cleaner and reduce overall traffic levels; and (b) residents and Blue Badge holders should have direct access to the streets where they live.

Unfortunately, up to now, the debate in Islington has been conducted as if people have to choose between two sides, leading to resentment and anguish all round.

So it was some relief that I read that common sense is finally beginning to break out, (Use tech to free residents from streets scheme, January 29).

The Liberal Democrats are the only party both supporting LTNs and calling for the use of ANPR, automatic number-plate recognition, to allow residents and Blue Badge holders to continue to have access to their own streets, while keeping rat-runners out.

This is the obvious solution if LTNs in Islington are going to be successful and supported by all the community. And 2021 is due to see the roll-out of more LTNs in St Mary’s, Barnsbury, around the Caledonian Road and Nag’s Head areas, and elsewhere.

The council must learn from the experience of the roll-outs in Canonbury, Highbury and St Peter’s by engaging residents properly before implementing new schemes.

Labour promised to do just that in their 2018 manifesto for the council elections. Why should Islington residents pay the price for their failure to follow through on that promise?

DOMINIC MARTIN
Islington Liberal Democrats