Community-led plans to deliver one of the most ambitious parks projects in the capital has received a major boost
The long-awaited transformation of Tottenham Hale’s nature reserve, The Paddock, has reached a significant milestone with a major development deal that promises to bring lasting environmental and community benefits. Haringey Council has successfully secured nearly two additional acres of land surrounding the reserve from Thames Water, a crucial acquisition that paves the way for the final phase of the ambitious project.
The deal will not only protect the nature reserve but also provide greater access to the green space for local residents. Key enhancements to the site include new pathways that will traverse previously inaccessible private land, as well as improved connections to the recently installed Paddock footbridge, linking the nature reserve to Hale Wharf. These upgrades will ensure a more seamless and accessible experience for residents, enhancing the sense of connectivity and well-being.
Ruth Gordon, Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Local Economy, expressed her excitement over the landmark agreement. “This announcement is just the latest step in making our vision of a fairer, greener Tottenham Hale a reality. The flagship green spaces project at The Paddock is creating the borough’s first new nature reserve in more than a decade. It is part of our broader commitment to reinvest land receipts into securing long-term, direct benefits for local residents,” Gordon said. She emphasized that the transformation has been deeply shaped by the community, with extensive consultations ensuring that the plans reflect the desires and needs of local residents both now and in the future.
For the community, the Paddock is becoming much more than a park. It represents a collaborative vision of a space that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and the health and well-being of the local population. The development of new pathways and the enhanced access to the reserve are expected to encourage more people to enjoy outdoor activities, boosting both physical and mental health.
Rebecca Kennelly, CEO of The Conservation Volunteers, an organization that has partnered with Haringey Council for over 20 years, voiced her strong support for the project. “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Haringey Council and contribute to the development of The Paddock. This exciting next phase will bring Haringey residents even closer to nature, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of local green spaces while helping to protect them for future generations,” Kennelly said. Her organization has played a key role in connecting thousands of people to local green spaces, fostering stronger communities and supporting well-being.
The broader project encompasses more than just the nature reserve. As part of a comprehensive placemaking initiative, Haringey Council is working to revitalize the surrounding area. This includes the development of up to 600 new council homes, as well as the Welbourne Health Centre, which officially opened its doors this summer. These initiatives aim to ensure that Tottenham Hale becomes a more sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant area for current and future residents.
The Paddock’s transformation is part of a larger, long-term vision to create a greener, more connected urban environment. The masterplan for the nature reserve, developed through extensive community engagement, outlines a wide range of upgrades that will enhance the site’s accessibility and ecological value. Key improvements will include upgraded entrances, accessible paths, tree planting, landscaping, the installation of a bird hide, improved signage and interpretation, as well as benches and litter bins for increased comfort and ease. In addition, new temporary accommodation will be built to support educational programs, ensuring that the space becomes a hub for environmental learning and community engagement.
One of the most exciting aspects of the project is the innovative partnership with The Conservation Volunteers, who will manage the reserve through a 25-year self-financing lease. This agreement will see the charity raise external sponsorship and develop a network of local volunteers who will play an integral role in maintaining the space and supporting its growth. Additionally, the charity will implement a comprehensive engagement program with local schools, fostering connections between young people and nature while encouraging environmental stewardship.
The final phase of works at The Paddock is set to begin in the coming months and is expected to be completed by late 2025. With substantial funding secured through Section 106 planning obligations from the Hale Wharf development, the project has garnered significant support from both the council and the wider community.
The transformation of The Paddock is an example of how community-led initiatives, coupled with public and private partnerships, can create spaces that foster environmental sustainability, support local health and well-being, and enhance the quality of life for residents. As work progresses, it is clear that the vision for a greener and more connected Tottenham Hale is steadily becoming a reality, benefiting generations to come.
Local residents are encouraged to get involved with the project as it unfolds, whether through volunteering opportunities or simply by enjoying the new green space. The Paddock is set to become a shining example of how urban spaces can be revitalized to serve the needs of both people and nature.
