Traffic comes to a halt in Upper Street 

• HAVING witnessed Camden Council’s successful closure of roads, creation of cycle paths, and current works to calm traffic, I am struck by the failure of Islington Council to do the same.

A friend pointed out that – in Islington – there are by far too many who complain, even if there is no reason, that the LTNs, low traffic neighbourhoods allegedly impaired their enjoyment.

However I would put it that the problems are caused by certain individuals with money who block meaningful and decent regulation of unnecessary road traffic.

I recall the road-narrowing outside Arsenal stadium with drivers of 4x4s complaining that they overturned, allegedly negotiating the narrowing of the road.

Islington Council clearly marked the roads yet, by some amazing misadventure, the 4x4s still attempted to navigate the road. The restrictions were removed.

Other Islington initiatives suffered a similar fate (perhaps resulting from the inactions of the previous environment lead councillor).

Recently demonstrations have taken place once again: (‘Low Traffic Neighbourhood’ protesters block Upper Street, February 4). I question the origin and sincerity of the demonstrators involved.

Questions must be asked:

– Are they local residents?

– Have they got interests (shares, investments) in certain party politics or industries?

Islington is a densely populated area with further substantial increase in population due in the next few years following extensive development.

Managing – and curtailing – motorised traffic must be part of this overpopulating to prevent respiratory disease and ill health as a result of already excessive emissions, particularly from HGVs, vans and other polluting traffic.

LTNs cannot come soon enough.

ALEX K, N7