Construction of a pioneering building scheme in Haringey that will transform a rundown site into much-needed family-sized council homes is set to begin later this year.

This week (Monday 7 September 2026), a Cabinet Member signing approved the appointment of a contractor to build nine four-bedroom houses at the disused garages and old Kings Road car park to the rear of St James Place, N17.

Shortlisted for the 2026 Housing Design Awards, the innovative scheme will incorporate Passivhaus principles, combining high levels of insulation with overheating mitigation measures to create comfortable, energy-efficient homes that are affordable to run.

Cllr Tammy Hymas, Co-Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing, said:

” To tackle the crisis of affordability, we must deliver council homes.

Our priority is family-sized homes. Too many local families are currently living in overcrowded and expensive accommodation, which is why we are transforming this site into nine new family-sized council homes, all with four bedrooms.

Alongside the new buildings, we will be improving the surrounding green space and public realm to create a neighbourhood that is welcoming and safe for all.

The homes themselves will be built to an exceptional standard, using Passivhaus principles to deliver excellent insulation and lower energy bills for residents. This scheme will be a great contribution to genuinely affordable housing in this borough. “

Residents will benefit from first floor terraces and major investment in shared spaces such as enhanced landscaping, upgraded refuse facilities and safety measures including improved lighting and secure access.

High-performance energy saving measures such as solar panels, air source heat pumps and a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery system are part of the design.

Planning permission for the scheme was granted in February 2026.