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Quieter, calmer, less-polluted streets have been welcomed by most residents, as a consequence of the lockdown. So how do we keep these benefits as we return slowly to normality?
In Islington we believe that people-friendly streets are the answer. We are introducing schemes across the borough that make it easier and safer to walk and cycle by stopping traffic using residential streets as short-cuts. The result should be healthier and greener streets for all.
All schemes are being introduced as trials and residents will be formally consulted after 12 months but you can give us your views now on our plans and other traffic issues in your area on our Commonplace website.
We work closely with the emergency services before each scheme is installed so that they can still access every street and we’re continuing to work with them so that every crew knows about the changes.
Residents will still be able to access their property by car, as will visitors and deliveries from outside the area, but vehicles using residential streets as a cut-through won't be allowed.
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Face masks now compulsory in shops
Last week, face masks were made compulsory in all shops and supermarkets in England. Face masks are also compulsory on all public transport.
It's compulsory to wear a face covering when buying food and drink to take away.
You can find a guide to making your own face mask here.
You should also continue to wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport; use sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
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Better Leisure gyms re-open
Better Leisure gyms, studios, pools and tennis courts have started to re-open. Facilities at Archway, Highbury and Sobell Leisure Centres, and Ironmonger Row Baths and Islington Tennis Centre opened their doors on 25 July. The Sobell Leisure Centre Trampoline Park will open on 29 July while Cally Pool & Gym, Finsbury Leisure Centre and Market Road gyms will be opening at a later date.
To keep you safe, and to help with social distancing, equipment within gym areas has been reduced and some fitness classes will be moved to sports halls or, weather permitting, the open air. Booking your one hour slot in advance through the website is essential. You’ll also be asked to bring water with you and to shower and change at home.
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Islington Libraries are beginning to reopen from this week, with a changed service. Resident and staff safety is a top priority, so we intend to open services in phases:
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Monday 27 July – Saturday 8 August: returns only at Central and Finsbury libraries
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From Monday 10 August – Saturday 29 August: click, call and collect only from Central, Finsbury and Archway libraries
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September onwards (tbc) – more buildings open for browsing and choosing books and more study spaces – though numbers of people will be limited
Our online offer will continue during this time and the Home Library Service will restart limited deliveries to registered users from 27 July.
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Have your say on Vision 2030
Islington Council wants to work closely with residents, businesses and community groups to achieve our goal of becoming a zero-carbon borough by 2030. The Vision 2030 consultation closes on Friday so please let us know how you think we could improve our plans:
Have your say on our Biodiversity Action Plan
You can also have your say on the Biodiversity Action Plan, which describes how biodiversity can be sustained in Islington by supporting wildlife habitats in different environments. Please take a look at our plan and let us know what you think:
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Heatwave, our summer programme for children and young people is definitely on, offering a range of activities for all ages in July and August. Some activities are taking place online and others socially distanced, to keep everybody safe.
Children can take part in online activities like the Summer Reading Challenge. We also are running some Bright Start activities for under 5s online, like Come and Play, family Zumba and baby massage. The Bright Start team are also organising Lunch Bunch picnics for families with children under 5 to meet in-person, but socially distanced.
Lunch Bunch, our initiative to help tackle 'holiday hunger', is also providing a free lunch in a bag to children and young people who take part in an in-person course.
Young people aged 13 and over, who live or go to school or college in Islington, can sign up for free Summerversity courses. For young people aged 16 and over there is also Launchpad courses on offer, all of which will help young people make the most of their summer holiday while staying safe.
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