Newly elected Green Party Councillor Caroline Russell has mounted a campaign to improve the recycling and waste-disposal facilities in Highbury Fields, the borough’s largest open space.
With local residents and workers keen to make the most of the summer sun, the park has seen a big increase in visitors in recent weeks. Sadly bins in the park have been unable to meet this increased capacity (image above, credit: Caroline Russell) leaving litter, bin bags, and discarded BBQs scattered across the park’s grass and public walkways.
Public concerns about the state of the park and an increase in bin fires have been raised with the Council by newly-elected Green Party Councillor Caroline Russell. Ms. Russell is calling on her fellow Islington Councillors to increase the number of bins in the park and provide safe facilities for BBQ disposal.
Councillor Russell said:
“Surrounded by local schools, offices, and homes, Highbury Fields provides an important focal point for the local Islington community and those from across London looking for a barbecue venue. It’s a place where families can enjoy a day-out, people can come to make the most of the summer sun, and workers can get that all important break away from their desks.
“Sadly the parks’ popularity is not being matched by investment in its amenities. Bin fires are increasing and discarded BBQs are causing fires in bin bags stacked by overflowing bins. Children, parents, friends, and families should be free to enjoy the space the park provides without having to be confronted by piles of litter and disused BBQs and those working for the Council should be protected from the risk of burns from smouldering refuse. I’m calling on the council to make a commitment to clean-up the park, increase the bins available and provide facilities to safely dispose of BBQs and recycle picnic debris. Everyone enjoys sharing food with friends but safety must be managed both for park visitors and those who work for the council.”