Wanted: developers who can breathe life into area

Published: 3 June, 2011

• THE prospect of an injection of cash to help kick-start Archway’s regeneration is welcome. However, as everyone within the community knows, it will 

take a great deal more than tinkering around with the traffic to effect meaningful change.

The council must ensure the bulk of the cash allocation is not siphoned off to pay traffic and planning consultants to come up with yet more unrealisable plans at the expense of real improvements in the infrastructure of the area.

There has been much talk of improvement in Archway for the ten years I have been active here in the community, but with little or no change.

Archway needs action and it needs investment.

The investment is not going to come from the public purse in these uncertain times and therefore private investment needs to be actively sought and encouraged.

Designating Archway a Special Development Area within Islington may attract developers who can provide 

the funds to generate development, job creation and affordable homes – all much needed by the citizens of Islington.

I know Councillor Catherine West, the leader of the council, shares my passion for this area, and I know she has the drive and commitment to make it happen.

Let’s not miss this latest opportunity to breathe new life into a part of London overlooked for too long despite its excellent location and infrastructure.

CHRIS ROCHE 
Architect/founder-director
11.04 Architects Ltd