‘Islington Council have no intention of moderating their LTN plans whatever the results’

• THE Zoom consultation last Saturday made it very clear that Islington Council have no intention of moderating their LTN, low traffic neighbourhood, plans whatever the results.

The “key findings” shown at the meeting and in their leaflet made no mention of the problems created for many residents and businesses by the LTNs, whether delayed bus and car journeys, impact on businesses, or pollution on main roads.

The online questionnaire is likewise biased and designed to find only the positive aspects. The section for businesses did not even ask the impact on sales.

The council accepted the interim monitoring report was full of errors and many problems raised in the meeting, both of measurement and impact on individuals, were generally not denied, but when someone asked “what does it take for the council to change its mind”, the response was totally unconvincing.

Another question provided the real answer. “Why not have camera-controlled access for LTN residents, as the increase in traffic will be very small?”

The response from both Labour and Green Party councillors was the same; the small impact on traffic did not matter, the point of LTNs was to make it more difficult to drive, people need to walk or cycle.

Fine if you are young and fit, too bad that the buses are worse, too bad if you are old, have young children, need the car for work, or are a delivery driver.

Even access for Blue Badge holders has been grudging, delayed and limited. What does it take for the council to compromise?

ROBERT TENCH, N5