Rundown land in EC1 is transformed for residents

A rundown triangle of land in EC1 has been transformed with a £370,000 makeover from EC1 New Deal for Communities and Islington Council.

For years the Agdon Street Triangle, on St John Street, was neglected and underused by residents and passers-by. But now seating and lighting has been installed, together with new paving and surfacing, creating a safe and attractive space to sit or meet. An unused stretch of Agdon Street was also reclaimed as open space, greatly increasing the amount of land.

EC1 New Deal for Communities board member, David Hyams, who has lived in EC1 for more than 60 years said:

"This piece of land was certainly neglected. This is much lighter and brighter and I hope it makes people realise that things are happening with EC1 and the council working in a very positive way."

Greg Wright, joint landlord of the Peasant pub which looks out onto the triangle, said:

"I remember vividly how rundown it was. You couldn't get a greater contrast to the contemporary finish of this. I think it is a great achievement - we are really happy with it. It is unrecognisable. Also I think the planting is tremendous."

Secure stands for 16 bikes and six motorbikes has also been added, and wider walkways make it easier to navigate for buggies and wheelchairs. Traffic calming also makes it safer for pedestrians.

Construction work started in December last year and was finished earlier this month. Wide-ranging consultation took place in 2005.

Funding of £200,000 came from EC1 New Deal for Communities and £170,000 from Islington Council.