A cherished North London bowling alley is at the centre of a growing controversy after being earmarked for potential redevelopment in a key council document. Rowans Tenpin Bowl in Finsbury Park has been identified as a site 'potentially suitable for tall buildings' in Haringey Council's recently published Draft Local Plan.
What Does Haringey Council's Plan Propose?
The draft plan, which outlines a vision for the borough's growth over the next 15 years, suggests the land currently occupied by Rowans could be used for a 'high-density, mixed-use development'. This could include the construction of approximately 190 new homes. Crucially, the council states that any future plans from the landowner must ensure 'an appropriate leisure/community facility use to replace the existing Rowans bowling alley must be provided at the foot of the new buildings'.
Deputy leader and cabinet member for Housing and Planning, Cllr Sarah Williams, sought to reassure the community. She said, 'We know that Rowans is a much-loved local space for our community and there are no proposals to replace it.' She added that the Local Plan acts as a safeguard, requiring any future redevelopment to include community, culture, and leisure facilities, which could mean a bowling alley.
Community Reaction and Rowans' Statement
The publication of the draft plan has prompted significant local uproar, with many residents expressing dismay at the potential loss of the iconic venue. Ed McIlroy, owner of nearby pub The Plimsoll, passionately defended Rowans on Instagram, calling it 'the perfect cross section of London' and 'the entire crown' of the area.
In response to the concern, Rowans itself released a statement to clarify its position. The statement outlined four key points: firstly, there are no short-term plans to change; secondly, they understand the opportunity redevelopment could offer; thirdly, they support the allocation of leisure facilities in any scheme; and fourthly, any redevelopment would be a mid to long-term prospect, with no immediate changes planned.
Time is Running Out to Have Your Say
The council has emphasised that nothing is set in stone and the draft plan is currently out for public consultation. This is the community's chance to formally feed back on the proposals. The consultation period closes on Friday, December 19, 2025, leaving just days for the public to submit their views.
Residents and fans of Rowans can share their thoughts directly with Haringey Council through the official consultation portal. The final decision on any future development will ultimately rest with the landowner, but the council's Local Plan will set the policy framework within which any application must be considered.
