Islington Tribune - by MARK BLUNDEN Published: 15 June 2007
Councillor Lucy Watt with traders Gee Agathangelou and Teddy Taylor
Great feat for Cowcross St
GROTTY and ragged Cowcross Street has been transformed into a “pedestrian paradise”. The first phase of a major works improvements programme were completed last week on the small but busy Finsbury street leading to Farringdon station.
It follows a huge ‘yes’ voted in favour of pedestrianising Cowcross Street last September.
Town Hall environment chief Lucy Watt said: “There are 19 million people who come in and out of Farringdon each year, making it the second-busiest station in Islington. “Without traffic, the street now has a safer, more human feel and is more accessible for the majority of users arriving on foot and bike.”
Action was taken following a series of accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists spilling out on to busy Cowcross Street from the station.
The formerly narrow pavement has been widened and a two-way cycle path added along with 12 new cycle stands.
Newspaper seller Teddy Taylor said: “Lunatics used to drive through too fast. It has increased my own public space and improved my business.”
Gee Agathangelou, manager of Tasty cafe, said: “Cyclists and pedestrians now feel free to walk around. They can also cross the road more easily and safely.”