Wheelchair and electric scooter users will have easier and more accessible journeys following the implementation of a number of disabled access routes across the borough by the council.<br><br>The council has undertaken a number of engineering measures, such as dropping kerbs and removing street obstructions to enable users of wheelchairs and electric scooters to travel along the pavement to the shops, work or school.<br><br>Councillor Laura Willoughby, executive member for communities said: “The council is once again listening to residents to provide more accessible facilities across the borough. <br><br>"Improving accessibility and increasing the independence of wheelchair and electric scooter users can help people feel more mobile and less isolated.<br><br>"It's part of our One Islington vision which seeks to let everyone in the community make the most of the borough's opportunities, regardless of their circumstances.”<br><br>Four schemes have been installed to date with a further four in the pipeline. Already in place are routes on:<br><br>·Naish Court in Bemerton Street<br>·Woodbury Estate, Newington Green<br>·St John’s Way, Archway<br>·Central Street (with access to King’s Square)<br><br>Joyce Bryant and her neighbour Ron Lang (from Newington Green) have both taken advantage of the new features. <br><br>Mrs Bryant uses the scheme to get to get to the shops at Newington Green and the Mayville Community Centre. Mr Lang uses the scheme to visit the pie and mash shop in Hoxton. Mrs Bryant, who has lived in the area for 50 years, said: “The scheme is brilliant. It has made access so much easier.”<br><br>The work is carried out by council officers. Residents wishing to request the service can phone Contact Islington on 020 7527 2000<br><br>ENDS<br><br>Notes for editor:<br><br>Further four sites in the pipeline:<br>Epping place/ Liverpool road <br>Highbury grange <br>Alexander road <br>Northampton road.
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009