Harrow Council's new council chamber at the Ridgeway is projected to become cost-neutral within three to four years, with initial interest from wedding bookings and other events. The facility is intended to be cost-neutral over its operational lifespan.
The new chamber was discussed in the context of the council's move from the old civic centre. Councillor Osborn expressed a preference for remaining at the previous site but acknowledged that significant maintenance backlogs had rendered it unviable.
By the time the current administration took control in 2022, the backlog of maintenance and the condition of the old civic centre building made it unviable. The building had been condemned and would have required over £50 million to repair due to issues including asbestos, and damaged heating and electricity systems.
Councillor Osborn stated that the new chamber at the Ridgeway represents a much more cost-effective solution compared to the previous administration's plans to construct a new civic centre in Wealdstone, which was estimated to cost between £20 million and £40 million.
Further details on council matters can be found in the Public reports pack Tuesday 13-Jan-2026 18.30 Overview and Scrutiny Committee.