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Arsenal stadium path 'to open soon'
A PUBLIC footpath through Arsenal's old stadium is finally set to open - giving Gunners fans the chance to stroll across the hallowed turf of Highbury. The former football ground, now known as Highbury Square, has been transformed into a £150million development of 724 luxury flats.
A path between Avenell Road and Highbury Hill - promised as part of the planning permission for the development in 2007 - will open in the New Year, taking pedestrians through the communal gardens where the famous pitch once was.
Highbury Square resident Jamie Murray, 29, a courier, said: "It's a dream come true living there and I'm more than happy for people to come and look round. I often let people in when I see them at the gates anyway.
"I think it will divide opinion. If you're paying £400 a week rent you have delusions of grandeur. But all the Arsenal fans who know about the old atmosphere of Highbury will be fine with it."
Campaigners including Islington Green Party had expressed concern that the gates to the path had remained locked since Highbury Square was officially launched in September.
But a spokesman for Arsenal Football Club said: "There is currently an issue with the drainage within the garden at Highbury Square which is causing water to collect on the pavements. The main contractors Sir Robert McAlpine are currently working to remedy the situation and we are confident that the public walkway through Highbury Square will be open early in the New Year.
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