Happy New Year, Neighbours!

1 min read
A green door with the number "2026" above and a BLCS Heart leaflet in the window.
Ringing in the New Year [BLCS]

Hello everyone, and welcome to 2026.

As we leave 2025 behind, it’s a good moment to pause and reflect on how far we’ve come together, and to look ahead with hope and optimism. Over the past few years, the proposed Barnsbury and Laycock Liveable Neighbourhood (LN) has sparked plenty of lively conversation. There are many reasons to be positive: evidence from elsewhere in Islngtron and across London shows that well-designed LTNs and liveable neighbourhoods can reduce traffic, and make streets safer and more welcoming for walking, cycling, wheeling, and for children and the elderly to get around safely. All without significant impacts on roads in boundary areas.

Although our local scheme has taken longer than many of us hoped, and final proposals remain under review, 2026 could be the year we begin to see real progress. The council remains committed to developing and consulting on detailed LN designs for Barnsbury and Laycock.

So, here’s to a fresh start: calmer streets, greener corners, flourishing local shops, and a safer, happier neighbourhood where we all feel welcome. Let’s hope 2026 brings good news — and exciting opportunities to help shape the future of our streets together.

Wishing you a peaceful, healthy and community-spirited New Year,
— The Barnsbury & Laycock Community Streets team