Islington Council has confirmed the temporary closure of one of its designated 'Cool Spaces' after the building itself overheated during record temperatures across London. The Whittington Park Community Centre in Archway was shut on Friday, June 26, following reports that staff welfare was at risk. The building is owned by the council but operated by a local charity.
Council reassures residents about remaining cool spaces
Despite the closure, Islington Council emphasized that its other 17 cool spaces across the borough remain open and operational. Additionally, four spaces in neighbouring City of London and Hackney are also available. Cllr Rowena Champion, Executive Member for Climate, Environment, and Transport, stated: 'We know that the heat poses real challenges for the local community. That's why we're so grateful that despite one Cool Space having to close, 17 other cool spaces spread across the borough, and four further spaces in neighbouring City of London and Hackney, have been offering residents somewhere to cool down, drink some water, and rest.'
Features of cool spaces and heatwave impact
Not all of Islington's cool spaces are air-conditioned, but most offer seating, free drinking water, and toilets. A map on the council's website helps residents find respite, including libraries, community centres, faith venues, parks, and public water fountains. On Friday, the UK recorded its hottest June day for the third consecutive day, with temperatures reaching 36°C in Suffolk. The heatwave caused travel disruptions, early school closures, and warnings about hot surfaces reaching up to 57°C, such as pavements and playground matting.
Vulnerability of inner London boroughs
A 2024 report by consultants Arup highlighted that inner London boroughs are particularly susceptible to extreme heat hazards. Islington, Hackney, Tower Hamlets, and Camden are most at risk for residential properties due to high-density flats, which are more vulnerable to heat than houses. Islington and Tower Hamlets have the smallest amount of green space per person in the UK. Camden Council has also launched an interactive map showing air-conditioned spaces and free water locations.
City Hall's Heat Ready Plan
On Thursday, June 25, City Hall unveiled London's first-ever Heat Ready Plan to prepare for soaring temperatures. Measures include retrofitting high-risk homes, increasing urban greening, and expanding access to cool spaces across the city.
