The Planning Sub Committee of Haringey Council met on Monday 05 February 2024 to discuss two significant planning applications. The committee granted planning permission for improvements to Down Lane Recreation Ground and discussed a pre-application for a new college building at the College of North East London.

Down Lane Recreation Ground Improvement Programme

The committee granted planning permission for Phases 2a and 3 of the Down Lane Park Improvement Programme. This involves the demolition of former park buildings and a basketball court to allow for the construction of a new Community Hub Building and Community Garden, new basketball and netball courts, a new children's play area, and associated landscaping. The decision was made following extensive consultation and co-design processes, with the project team commended for their work.

The proposal was supported by the Quality Review Panel and Urban Design London review panel, who noted the extensive co-design process and the masterplan approach. Concerns raised during local representations regarding safety, the removal of railings, and the separation of playgrounds were addressed by officers, who highlighted the involvement of crime prevention officers and the planned improvements to lighting and accessibility. The development will also provide a net gain of 39 trees and exceed London Plan carbon reduction targets, aiming for Passivhaus certification.

The committee also noted the pre-application briefing for a new five-storey building at the College of North East London Tottenham Centre, intended to host the Construction and Engineering Centre. The Quality Review Panel had previously supported the principle of the scheme, with revisions made to address concerns about height, massing, and heritage impact. The panel commended the project team's approach to sustainability and urban greening, encouraging further development of landscaping designs. The proposal is part of a wider masterplan to reconfigure the campus and activate courtyard spaces.

The meeting also included updates on major proposals, applications determined under delegated powers, and noted the date of the next meeting.