Across Islington, investment from developers is transforming local neighbourhoods, upgrading shared spaces, and delivering real benefits for residents. Since 2022, more than £18.5 million has been reinvested directly into the community through projects that make our borough fairer, healthier, and climate resilient. 

This funding – secured from developers building in the borough – ensures that when growth happens, everyone feels the benefit. It allows the council to focus investment where it’s needed most, improving quality of life across all 17 wards. 

Transforming estates, parks and public spaces 

Residents are already seeing the visible impact of this borough-wide programme of improvements: 

Better estates and shared spaces 

• £4.5 million invested in estate upgrades 
• Improvements include upgraded shared courtyards, new play areas, better lighting, and enhanced outdoor facilities 

Greener, more enjoyable open spaces 

• £3.4 million invested in parks and gardens 
• 72 landscaping and greening projects, plus another 37 through the Thriving Neighbourhoods programme 
• 25 new community gardening projects, helping resident groups create greener, more vibrant spaces 

More places to play 

• 24 playground upgrades, with another 19 delivered through Thriving Neighbourhoods 
• Reinforcing Islington’s ambition to remain the best London borough for play 

Support for local culture and health 

• £481,000 invested in community projects and cultural events 
• £380,000 invested in public health and sports facilities, boosting wellbeing 
• Support for 29 community centres, keeping these vital hubs thriving 

Together, these improvements are helping create a healthier, more welcoming borough where everyone can enjoy highquality shared spaces right on their doorstep. 

Building a fairer, stronger local economy 

Developer contributions have also supported Islington’s work to build a more inclusive and resilient local economy. In 2024/25 alone, the council’s Inclusive Economy programme: 

• Supported over 2,000 businesses with advice and handson help 
• Delivered £1.4 million of UK Shared Prosperity Fund investment, leading to:  
• 10,000 extra visitors to our high streets 
• Improvements to 5,000 sqm of public space 
• Upgrades to 300 sqm of commercial space 
• Generated £1.33 million in social value through the Affordable Workspaces Scheme 
• Distributed over £4.4 million of Household Support Fund to help lowincome households with the cost of living 
• Funded major cultural programmes, including festivals, grants for creative businesses, and new opportunities for young people 

This work strengthens neighbourhoods, supports local jobs, and ensures that prosperity is shared across the borough. 

Showcasing the projects making a difference 

Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing stories of some of the incredible projects funded through developer contributions – from greening neighbourhoods to upgrading youth spaces and revitalising community centres. 

Follow along on Islington Life, our website, and social media channels to see how investent is helping build a more equal Islington for all.