A council plan to link the borough’s green spaces is taking shape with the first stage of the Islington Connect2 Route unveiled recently.
The Gillespie Park extension, marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided wildflower walk, provides a green and tranquil traffic-free alternative for pedestrians and cyclists in the borough.
Financed by Islington Council’s £600,000 slice of Sustrans’ £50 million Big Lottery Fund grant, the extension will eventually be part of a wide network of walking and cycling routes connecting Finsbury Park to Highbury Corner.
Friends of Gillespie Park’s Diane Burridge said: “The Friends are thrilled that, after many years of campaigning, Islington has a unique new green walkway for everyone to enjoy.
“Thanks to the council, local residents, Sustrans and Gillespie Park staff and volunteers for supporting this.”
Sustrans – the UK’s leading sustainable transport charity – developed the nation-wide Connect2 scheme after winning the Big Lottery Fund grant in 2007.
The Gillespie Park extension enables people to access the nature reserve from the gate on Seven Sisters Road, opposite Finsbury Park station.
By 2013, the Islington Connect2 Route will also include Highbury Corner, Highbury Place, Ronald’s Road, Arvon Road, Drayton Park, Seven Sisters Road, Station Place and Stroud Green Road into Finsbury Park in Hackney.
Cllr Greg Foxsmith, Executive Member for the Environment, said: “This project will mean better and safer links between our parks which is fantastic news for not only cyclists and pedestrians but the entire Islington community.
“Gillespie Park is home to a wealth of wildlife, including almost 250 species of plants and more than 90 species of birds, so I hope these improvements mean more people can enjoy the experience.”
Matt Winfield, area manager for Sustrans, says: “This is really exciting for local residents and anyone travelling through the borough for everyday journeys by foot and bike.
“This route takes you from a really busy urban environment – lots of cars, buses, noise and congestion - to a peaceful path along a railway line.
“It’s a fantastic and welcome addition to the borough’s walking and cycling network.”
Page Last Updated: 23 June 2009