Plans to change the area around St John Street are now in motion.
The area of St John Street between Charterhouse Street and St John’s Lane is the site of the old Hicks Hall sessions house.
An Islington Council spokesperson said: “The area has a rich history.
“Our designs celebrate this heritage while creating a more welcoming and sustainable space for everyone.”
As part of the plans, changes will be made to the area to make it greener, more accessible, and safer.
The changes announced include new trees and planting to enhance biodiversity, reduced vehicle traffic via the Charterhouse Street junction, and widened pavements and improved crossings.
A new cycle lane is also set to be installed.
It is hoped the changes will make the area a peaceful space for those working nearby to enjoy lunch breaks and encourage more environmentally friendly ways of getting around.
Councillor Rowena Champion, executive member for environment, air quality and transport, said: “We’re really looking forward to starting work on St John Street.
“These changes will make the area safer, greener, and more enjoyable for everyone- and they’ll help us tackle the climate crisis by encouraging more environmentally friendly ways of getting around.”
As part of the changes, historical details and interpretative elements will be added to celebrate the area’s past.
Debbie Akehurst, chief executive at Central District Alliance Business Improvement District, said: “We’re happy that the St John Street project in Clerkenwell is about to begin.
“We’re glad to support it.
“The changes will make the area safer for people walking and will add green space and places to sit for workers, visitors, and locals to enjoy.”
The project has been supported by the Bunhill and Clerkenwell councillors and forms part of the council’s wider plan to create streets that put health, the environment, and the community first.
Ross Phillips, sustainable transport manager and Healthy Streets Everyday II project lead at Cross River Partnership, said: “We can look forward to less congested streets, fewer polluting vehicles, more green space, and vibrant pedestrian spaces.
“This will support more Londoners with safe, clean, green outdoor space to walk, wheel, scoot, and cycle.”
Residents and businesses will be kept informed throughout the construction period, with updates available on the project’s dedicated page, letstalk.islington.gov.uk/st-john-street.
