Islington Council is spending more money than ever before on upgrading roads and pavements across the borough. <br><br>At last night's budget meeting, the authority agreed to splash out £21million over three years. <br><br>The money will be used to create smoother roads and footways, plant extra trees – and improve the entire appearance of many streets. <br><br>Councillor Lucy Watt, Islington Council's Executive Member for Environment, said: "People in Islington take great pride in their local environment, so it's only right that we put even more money into making our streets look better. <br><br>"Smoother surfaces will be better for everyone who uses our roads -- pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.<br><br>"The money means we can get to work straight away on a thorough makeover for dozens of roads, which will last far longer than any patchwork repairs. <br><br>"Of course, we're already talking to utility companies to co-ordinate things and make sure they don't go round digging up our newly-laid surfaces. And, if they leave a mess behind, we now have powers to fine them." <br><br>As part of the spending, more dropped kerbs will be installed for wheelchairs and pushchairs. <br><br>Road signs and railings will be spruced up, drains replaced, and more trees planted wherever possible. <br><br>The council will turn its attention to improving 60 streets from April.<br><br>ENDS<br><br>For more information please call Chris Weeks on 020 7527 3032
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009