Road accidents in the borough have dropped to an eight-year low thanks largely to Islington Council’s commitment to safety programmes.
New figures show the number of people killed or seriously injured (KSI) in road accidents in Islington fell from 227 in 2001 to 75 in 2008.
The significant decrease has been achieved through the council’s road education and publicity programmes, local safety schemes, 20mph zones, cycle and bus schemes and a £20m highways improvement scheme.
But the fight continues through the council’s 2009 Road Safety Programme which includes a host of campaigns aimed at further decreasing the figure.
Cllr Greg Foxsmith, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Environment, said: “Keeping people safe on the borough’s roads is one of the most important roles for any council.
“The fall in the number of serious accidents shows quite clearly that Islington’s traffic calming policies are working but we want to continue to improve this figure. Behind the accident statistics are real people who are escaping serious injury or worse.
“Our 2009 Road Safety Programme will help raise awareness and continue to keep residents and visitors safe.”
As part of the Road Safety Programme, the ‘Walk Safer’ scheme – which offers practical pedestrian training – will be delivered to Islington schools throughout the year while a number of ‘Stop and Advise’ sessions – aimed at highlighting dangers and promoting safe practices to cyclists – have also been scheduled.
In addition, free cycle training will be available to anyone who lives, works or studies in the borough.
The council also launched a ‘design a poster’ competition which was won by Ruby, 10, from Ambler Primary School.
Ruby’s colourful design, which will be seen on posters at Islington bus stops, was successful in illustrating the important road safety message.
Page Last Updated: 07 September 2009