The cost of essential repairs at Broadwater Farm estate has soared to £10 million, with the completion date now pushed back to April 2027. The significant increase in expenditure is attributed to the discovery of previously concealed defects and the need to comply with updated fire safety regulations.
Councillor Dixie-Ann Joseph, Cabinet Member for Placemaking at Haringey Council, approved a variation to the contract sum and programme for the Broadwater Farm External Major Works Programme on August 10, 2026. This decision, detailed in the Decisions 10th Aug 2026, was made to address necessary repairs and ensure the buildings remain safe and compliant with current regulations.
The original scope of works, which included concrete repairs, balcony waterproofing, and redecoration, was based on visual, non-intrusive surveys. However, once contractors gained full access to the buildings, a range of issues became apparent. These included asbestos, lead-based paint, and structural concerns, which necessitated intrusive concrete testing and structural assessments. These findings required further surveys, revised methodologies, and changes to the scope to meet statutory requirements.
Specifically, the 'Higher Risk Buildings' fire safety legislation has mandated fire risk mitigation actions and changes to external materials to meet stringent fire safety standards. This includes the adoption of A2-rated fire-compliant coatings. These measures are crucial for ensuring the safety of residents and the long-term integrity of the buildings.
Alternative options considered by the council included doing nothing, which was discounted due to the risk of ongoing deterioration, and pausing the works to integrate them into a wider estate regeneration programme. This latter option was also rejected due to the lengthy timescales involved and the potential for continued building deterioration during the interim period.
The report, available in the Public reports pack 10th Aug 2026, highlighted that the additional costs were a direct result of these unforeseen issues and the need for compliance, rather than enhancements to the original brief. The council stated that all costs have been assessed in accordance with the contract and subjected to commercial challenge to ensure value for money.
The decision impacts residents of Haringey Council-owned properties, a significant number of whom share protected characteristics. The council has stated that the scope of works will be adapted for residents with disabilities, and engagement will take place to identify specific needs. While the timeline for this engagement is not yet specified, the council is committed to ensuring these residents' needs are met throughout the adapted works.
