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Islington Tribune - by JAMIE WELHAM
Published: 25 January 2008

The 19th-century park has been transformed into an award-winning space

Crime-hit park blooms again

A CLERKENWELL park that was once a magnet for anti-social behaviour has scooped a prestigious award for its radical transformation.
Nestling behind trendy Exmouth Market, Spa Fields had become a no-go zone – a haven for drug dealers and petty crooks – until it received £1 million makeover by Islington Council and regeneration body EC1 New Deal for Communities last year.
The 19th-century park won the best community-based planning initiative category at London Planning Awards this week.
Residents and City workers are flocking back to the park to enjoy the picnic area and landscaped gardens.
Regular user Rebecca Cresswell said: “In the past, the park was rather rundown and not a place where residents wanted to spend their time.
“I’m really pleased it’s been transformed. It’s now used by people picnicking and playing games – in fact, a whole host of different people are using it for different activities.
“There’s also improved seating and really nice plants. It’s a really attractive area for everyone.”
Islington Council’s Lib Dem executive member for leisure and equalities, Councillor Ruth Polling, said: “I’m delighted that Spa Fields has won this award, which recognises the hard work the council, EC1 and residents have put into improving it.
“Residents, particularly younger people, were at the heart of the project, which is exactly the right approach.
“This park is steeped in history and, thanks to a great deal of hard work, I’m delighted to see that so many people are enjoying it.”

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