Haringey Council Allocates £3.6 Million for Hostel Refurbishments in Muswell Hill

Haringey Council has approved a significant investment of £3.6 million towards the refurbishment of four hostels in Muswell Hill, a decision made by Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader), on March 9, 2026. The works aim to enhance the safety, energy efficiency, and overall quality of council-owned properties.

The hostel refurbishment project, located at 9, 32, and 39 Queens Avenue, and 19 Princess Avenue, will see extensive works including structural repairs, roof and external fabric improvements, and the replacement of windows and doors. A key focus will be on decarbonisation measures, such as the installation of air source heat pumps and solar panels, with the goal of improving the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating from D/E to C.

Fire Safety Enhancements

Fire safety upgrades are a critical component of the refurbishment. These will include replacing entrance doors with fire-rated components, installing compliant fixtures and fittings throughout both communal and individual areas, and enhancing compartmentation—particularly within roof voids and between units—to limit the spread of fire.

Communal Space Improvements

The refurbishment of communal spaces will include redecoration, lighting upgrades, flooring replacement, and handrail repairs. Stairwells will also be assessed and upgraded as required to meet fire safety and accessibility standards.

Procurement and Timeline

This £3.6 million contract has been awarded to Tenderer A, who submitted the most advantageous tender, offering the optimal balance of price and quality, achieving a score of 97.75% out of 100%. The council opted for a standalone procurement route to expedite the refurbishment and maximise income generation, as many rooms are currently vacant.

The project is scheduled to run for 12 months from April 2026 to March 2027. The 'Handover' is indicated as March 2027, with 'End of Defects and Final Sign-Off' expected in August 2027. The document does not provide individual timelines for each hostel's completion. ¹

Resident Support

Plans are in place to support current residents during the refurbishment. Where works require properties to be temporarily vacated, a decant strategy is in place. Affected residents will be supported and communicated with directly by Housing Services to ensure appropriate alternative accommodation and support arrangements are provided.

Strategic Alignment

This initiative aligns with Haringey Council's Housing Asset Management Strategy and Corporate Delivery Plan (2024–2026), aiming to ensure housing assets are safe, compliant with Building Safety Regulations, and contribute to the borough's sustainability goals. The full details of the decision can be found in the Public reports pack [https://www.minutes.haringey.gov.uk/documents/g11408/Public%20reports%20pack%2009th-Mar-2026%2015.00%20Cabinet%20Member%20Signing.pdf?T=10].