Download IslingtonLife - Autumn 2012 - Islington Council

News
Volunteers
jazz-up
playgrounds
Over 1,800 volunteers from the Royal
Bank of Scotland (RBS) worked hard
to make improvements at five of
Islington’s adventure playgrounds over
the summer.
The Islington Playground Challenge
2012 – funded by RBS and Islington
Council – has resulted in a range of
new adventure play facilities for local
children. All the improvements have
been based on designs developed by
children, families and play workers.
By the end of October more than
55,000 screws, nails and bolts will have
been used, and around 14,800 hours
given by the volunteers, to spruce up
Lumpy Hill, King Henry’s Walk, Crumbles
Castle, Cornwallis and Martin Luther
King adventure playgrounds.
Jessica White, a playworker at Martin
Luther King Adventure Playground, said:
“The work carried out was greatly
appreciated by both the children and
staff alike and has maximised the play
opportunities we offer the children and
Children love the newly revamped King Henry's Walk playground
young people at the playground.
“The volunteers were amazing and
their hard work and dedication has
helped build a fantastic playground.
“They didn't take over but helped build
a playground that was designed by the
children and staff and completed our
vision for Martin Luther King.”
Refurbished baths get set to reopen
Images: Sketch Studio London
Architectural Design: Tim Ronalds Architects
Architect's impression of the new-look
swimming pool at Ironmonger Row Baths
A £16 million refit of the historic
Ironmonger Row Baths is nearing
completion.
The baths, built in 1931, have
been closed whilst a thorough
makeover has been underway.
Improvements to the baths
include a restored main pool and
new teaching pool, a new, larger
gym, plus a new exercise studio and
cardio zone.
Historic features have been
carefully restored, and the
famous Turkish baths have been
refurbished to include an expanded
spa area. The much-used public
laundry has been kept too, plus
work has been carried out to make
the building much more accessible.
Executive member for health and
well-being, Janet Burgess is looking
forward to the reopening. She said:
“In its new form, the baths will
serve our residents for many years
to come. I am particularly pleased
with the facilities for disabled people,
which are very important as part
of keeping the spirit of the
Paralympics alive.”
The doors will open soon.
To find out more, including
membership offers, visit
www.islington.gov.uk/irb
4