Haringey Civic Centre has been closed since 2020 following the discovery of “serious safety and structural issues” but will now be expanded and reopened

How the revamped Haringey Civic Centre is expected to look when finished (credit Haringey Council)

Plans to revamp and expand Haringey Civic Centre have moved a step closer as Haringey Council this week agreed to award a £54million construction contract for the project.

The major refurbishment of the Grade 2-listed building in Wood Green, which closed in 2020 following the discovery of “serious safety and structural issues”, won planning approval in September 2023.

This week the council agreed the award of the main-build contract for the major expansion and refurbishment to construction firm John Sisk & Son Limited.

The civic centre scheme, which has a total budget of more than £65m, will deliver a new annex, offices and restored civic spaces.

Restoring the “treasured landmark” is described by the council as “the best value option” for its accommodation needs. The new civic centre will become home to more than 800 council staff, with space for local people and community groups. It will also host council meetings, which have had to take place at various different venues around the borough since 2020.

Ruth Gordon, the council’s cabinet member for placemaking and local economy, said: “Steeped in a proud and important local history, this truly iconic building holds a special place in the hearts of many people.

“This is really an exciting step forward for this project which will re-establish the civic centre as the focal point for public life at the very heart of our borough.

“Residents will understandably ask whether the council can afford to continue with this project given the funding challenges it faces. The business case, which we have continually retested, makes it clear this scheme offers the best value for money of all the options available.

“Doing nothing is not an option and even that, given our responsibility to the listed building, would cost millions and not bring the site back into civic use.

“We will continue to heavily involve residents as the scheme moves forward with a dedicated online hub developed to enable them to monitor progress and take part in future engagement opportunities.”

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