• THE Barnsbury/ Laycock LN, liveable neighbourhood, scheme is deeply flawed and should not be passed in its currently proposed form.

It needs amendment to address at least the following points.

– It discriminates against the elderly, in particular those trying to remain independent and not rely on state and communal assistance, and who need to be able to travel freely by car to achieve this.

– It is therefore illegal as it is an agist policy contrary to The Equality Act 2010.

– It is inconsiderate and discriminatory against the disabled and frail who need a car to remain mobile for visits to doctors, pharmacists and other health care, and to carry goods such as shopping.

– It is therefore illegal as contrary to disability discrimination legislation.

– It contains no provisions for the control of cyclists who, being anonymous, will have free rein to ride as they please throughout the low traffic neighbourhood without fear of any sanction for dangerous riding and behaviour (note, virtually all cycle journeys become a race).

– It is contrary to public safety and is dangerous as it will not make the roads (particularly those that are to be designated cycle routes) safe from speeding bikes and scooters, most of which are capable of going at speeds well above 20mph.

– It is unfair on all those living outside the LN as they will live with increased traffic volumes and the consequent increased pollution and congestion.

– It is inflationary as it will result in increased charges for deliveries which will take longer to arrive.

– It will add to the costs of maintaining property, in particular the Georgian and Victorian housing  stock, as journey times for tradespeople will be increased.

– It does not address sustainability issues as it contains no positive terms to permit and encourage electric car ownership and use within the LN.

– It has been rolled out in a cynically undemocratic manner by, for example, only allowing a month for a response.

NICK MASON, N1