A Labour-run council has introduced a temporary 10mph speed limit on part of St John Street in Islington, just north of Smithfield Market, while major roadworks take place.
The restriction, which is expected to last around six months, has drawn backlash from some residents and business owners who say it’s impractical and damaging to trade.
One local resident, Jay, 56, called the move “ridiculous,” saying: “In London, speed limits are getting out of hand. If you’re driving, it’s a joke.”
Motorcyclist Phil Cudlipp, 68, said his Harley-Davidson struggles to stay running at 20mph, let alone 10mph. “At that speed, people will just bunch up behind each other,” he said. “It’ll mean more cars idling at lights, which only adds to pollution.”
Local shopkeeper Kayk Panch, who owns Bhavini’s Newsagent and Off Licence, said the roadworks have already hit his business hard. “We’ve lost parking, and fewer people are coming through,” he said. “Sales are down about 25 per cent, and this could go on for another six months.”
However, not everyone disagrees with the move. Matt Simmons, 30, a data engineer, welcomed the lower limit, saying: “This area is already very pedestrian-focused, with cyclists and deliveries everywhere. Slower speeds could make it safer.”
The temporary limit is part of wider improvement works to install a new cycle lane, rain gardens, and trees along the street.
Islington Council has been contacted for comment.
