An art project aiming to create an important cultural legacy for a major new council housing development in Tottenham Hale has been unveiled.
A vibrant new artwork now surrounds the former Ashley Road Depot site, as eye-catching hoardings featuring striking bird visuals have been installed. Created by artist and anthropologist Liz Hingley in collaboration with local schoolchildren, the artwork draws inspiration from the migratory birds of neighbouring Tottenham Marshes, reflecting the diversity and spirit of the Tottenham Hale community.
Embracing this theme, the development will be named Wingspan Walk, with each block named after a different bird species. This unique concept will create a lasting connection between the new homes, their surroundings, and the rich natural heritage of the area.
Eye-catching hoardings installed outside the former Ashley Road Depot site include striking visuals of birds created by artist and anthropologist Liz Hingley working alongside local school children.
To mark the unveiling, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, Cllr Sarah Williams, and Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Local Economy, Cllr Ruth Gordon, joined Liz Hingley, teachers and pupils from Holy Trinity CE Primary School, Cllr Sean O’Donovan, and contractors Formation Design and Build Ltd at a special ceremony.
Cllr Williams praised the project, saying:
“The Ashley Road Depot scheme is one of the largest in our ambitious housebuilding programme, set to benefit hundreds of Haringey families. Seeing the children’s involvement and their creative input first-hand has been truly inspiring.
“This collaboration will leave a lasting legacy, fostering a sense of community ownership over the new estate. My thanks go to everyone involved in making this vision a reality.”
Artist Liz Hingley highlighted the deeper meaning behind the artwork:
“This project was designed to connect the new homes with their environment by linking residents with the bird species that share this space. The names of the buildings will strengthen that bond, encouraging awareness of the natural world.
“The artwork was shaped by hundreds of children through their languages, poetry, and physical contributions. The legacy of this project will live on through sculptures, wayfinding features, and playful elements celebrating the ten birds chosen for the scheme.”
A New Era for Affordable Housing
The Ashley Road Depot site is being transformed into 272 new council homes, located on Park View Road near Tottenham Hale Station. Every home in the development will be allocated to residents on the council’s housing register, with more than a third designated as much-needed family-sized homes.
As one of Haringey’s largest housebuilding projects, Wingspan Walk contributes to the council’s ambitious goal of delivering 3,000 new council homes by 2031, with over 2,000 already started or completed.
Beyond housing, the scheme will introduce new entrances to Down Lane Park, plant 74 additional trees, and incorporate shrubbery to enhance biodiversity. The homes will be built using sustainable materials, with high insulation and solar panels designed to keep energy costs low for residents.
By blending community-driven creativity with sustainable development, Wingspan Walk promises to be more than just a housing project—it’s a celebration of Tottenham Hale’s people, nature, and shared future.
