Dalston neighbours launch ‘parklet’ inspired by Ridley Road Market

Neighbours have unveiled a community “parklet” in their Dalston street inspired by Ridley Road Market.

Hackney became the first council in the country to launch a parklets scheme last year, following a defiant community campaign by London Living Streets campaigner Brenda Puech. A parklet converts a car parking bay into a mini-garden, as a way of reclaiming the streets from vehicles.

And people in Colvestone Crescent decided to get involved. On Sunday Hackney mayor Phil Glanville and his deputy, Cllr Feryal Demirci, dropped by to cut the ribbon.

A spokesperson for the group said the space was for all to enjoy, adding: “There will be a programme of events over the summer from gardening to toy swaps, and we encourage all locals to get involved. We will also be using this lovely space to encourage discussion about the long-running traffic and air pollution problems on the street [outside Colvestone Primary], and possible solutions.”

Cllr Demirci added: “Parklets are a fantastic way for people to reclaim their neighbourhoods from the car, open up spaces to the whole community and create a place where neighbours can meet each other.”

Anyone wanting to get involved in the activities can contact the group at colvestoneparklet@hotmail.com.