�A massive �2 million scheme to revamp Archway town centre has been unveiled. Islington Council plans to spend this cash on preparation for removing the controversial one-way road gyratory system and sprucing up rundown shops.

It has announced seven projects following consultation with residents and businesses.

Councillor Paul Convery, executive member for planning, said: “We’re committed to the regeneration of Archway, which is a great area but faces significant challenges. More than anything we want to get rid of the gyratory, which is an appalling blight on Archway.”

Hak Huseyin, chairman of the Archway Town Centre Management Group, said: “We are confident that the money will improve the look and feel of the Archway and look forward to the changes.”

The money will be spent on:

n �250,000 for feasibility work to bring the removal of the gyratory a step closer

n �500,000 for public space improvements at Archway Close and Flowers Mews

n �400,000 to replace and improve old shop fronts

n �100,000 to boost business, through the Archway Town Centre Management Group

n �100,000 for business �support in Archway and other Islington town centres

n �50,000 for the Academy of Science of Acting and Directing in Elthorne Road to help transform a derelictbuilding next to it into use as a 200-seater theatre.

n �200,000 for arts initiatives.

�400,000 will be kept in reserve. The package is set to be approved by the council’s executive next Tuesday.