Haringey Council Secures Major Government Funding for Community Space Overhaul
Community spaces across Haringey are set for a significant transformation following a substantial £1.5 million award from the government, specifically allocated for regeneration initiatives. This funding injection will support a wide range of enhancements, from revitalizing paddling pools to implementing pigeon-proofing measures, as confirmed by Haringey Council during a recent cabinet meeting.
Targeted Improvements Across the Borough
The financial support originates from the government's specialized "Pride in Place Impact Fund," designed to bolster community environments in areas identified as needing assistance. Haringey, recognized as the sixth most deprived locality in London with elevated rates of unemployment, child poverty, and inequality, was among 95 boroughs to receive funding through the 2025 spending review.
Ruth Gordon, the Labour councillor and cabinet member for placemaking and local economy, emphasized the critical nature of this funding, stating, "We absolutely need this money. We'll spend it really quick and then hopefully our residents will see those tangible improvements that they deserve."
Detailed Allocation of Funds
The council has outlined specific projects to benefit from the £1.5 million, with a deadline for expenditure set by March 2027. Key initiatives include:
- Upgrades to parks and play areas throughout the borough, alongside the planting of at least 60 new trees in residential streets.
- A £310,000 investment in Lymington Avenue, Wood Green, covering deep cleaning, pigeon proofing, pavement resurfacing, and façade improvements in collaboration with Rising Green youth hub.
- Enhancements to the Tottenham DIY skate park, focusing on security upgrades, new gates, lighting, and CCTV installation.
- A £200,000 allocation to replace drainage systems for paddling pools at Bruce Castle Park, Lordship Rec, and Priory Park.
- New equipment for the play area at Ducketts Common and the creation of a "natural play area" at Lordship Rec's entrance to address anti-social behavior.
- Protective measures for Haringey's oldest tree in Bruce Castle Park, catering to older residents.
Strategic Project Selection and Future Prospects
The March 2027 spending deadline played a pivotal role in determining which projects were selected. Councillor Gordon noted, "There are a lot more schemes we could've picked, but we had to try and find something that we could deliver in time. If the government wants to give us any more money we've got a longer list so they can always hand us a bit more and we will get it out the door!"
This comprehensive initiative aims to deliver visible and practical improvements, addressing long-standing community needs while fostering a safer and more engaging environment for all Haringey residents.
