Councillor’s column: Worthwhile improvements

Working with residents and diverse groups is one of the most positive aspects of being a councillor. It isn’t always easy − people have strong views and ideas − but the process of discussion, debate and joint commitment to improving things makes it worthwhile. There are many examples of this in Harringay.

Green Lanes is famous for its Turkish restaurants and lively atmosphere. It wasn’t always like that. Over many years my fellow ward councillors and I have worked with residents, the Green Lanes Traders’ Association, council services and other agencies to revive and transform Green Lanes into the great place it is today. Running the length of Harringay ward, although at the ward boundary, Green Lanes is at its heart.

Many readers might remember the Green Lanes Food Festivals where we celebrated all the street has to offer; the Christmas lantern parades and other community events. This was possible because we worked together; this successful approach must be sustained as issues like traffic come to the fore.

Many of the issues faced in Green Lanes, are in Turnpike Lane, where we are working to bring much needed improvements. The council is investing several hundred thousands of pounds in Turnpike Lane – working in a broad partnership to improve the environment and promote businesses. Improving Ducketts Common is part of this too, with a refurbished café and facilities reopening this year.

Last month Stroud Green and Harringay Library reopened, following a fantastic refurbishment. The Friends’ Group has been central partners – poring over designs, looking after the flower beds, planning the opening and recent local festival. Situated just across the railway bridge in Wightman Road, the library has provided access to books and learning for the last 120 years. Long abandoned rooms are now renovated for community use – spaces for people to meet and enjoy activities. The library can now play its part as a local hub. I hope many people, especially children, will be regular visitors.

Nearby is Finsbury Park – a Victorian design masterpiece. Over the last two years, the park has demonstrated its enormous value to the community, confirming the vital importance of our green spaces. The children’s play areas are brilliant; the cafes, the sports provision and other activities demonstrating the value of a local park. Of course, that doesn’t mean there aren’t problems. There are – community safety, lighting, and crime for example. The Friends of Finsbury Park are there to ensure we work to tackle these issues but also to support the dedicated staff team who have made such a difference.

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