The Executive Decision meeting on Tuesday 23 June 2026 approved the award of a contract for refurbishment works at The Tram Works, Hatherley Mews.

The Tram Works, Hatherley Mews - Refurbishment Project

The main contractor appointment for the refurbishment works at The Tram Works, Hatherley Mews was approved. The Director of Capital Strategy, Delivery & Estates, in consultation with Councillor Eva Tabbasam, Deputy Leader (Housing and Regeneration), agreed to award a contract to Woodland Interiors Contracting Limited for the sum of £1,573,643.23. This decision aims to bring vacant units at the historic Hatherley Mews site back into use, supporting creative, cultural, and commercial activities as part of the council's strategy to enhance the cultural offer and local economy in Walthamstow.

The report presented to the meeting outlined that Hatherley Mews, a Victorian site on Hoe Street¹, is undergoing regeneration to become a new cultural destination. Enabling works, infrastructure upgrades, and planning consents have already been completed. The approved contract will cover the refurbishment of the remaining vacant units. The council secured £1.96 million from the Government's Levelling Up Fund² to support this investment, in addition to allocated capital investment funding.

Alternative options considered included doing nothing, which would have left units vacant and prevented income generation, and retendering the contract. Retendering was not recommended as a compliant and viable bid had already been received. The chosen option was to award the contract to the successful bidder, Woodland Interiors Contracting Limited.

The refurbishment works are expected to contribute to the council's Regeneration Business Plan and the 15-minute cultural neighbourhood initiative. The project has involved consultation with existing businesses in the mews, and further communication will be undertaken with local businesses and residents regarding the forthcoming works.

The decision to award the contract was made following a competitive procurement process, which resulted in 14 tender submissions. Woodland Interiors Contracting Limited was selected as the successful bidder. The report highlighted that the scheme remains affordable within the approved funding envelope of £3.585 million, with committed expenditure to date of £1.912 million. The completed development is anticipated to generate rental income, contributing to cost recovery over time.

An Equality Impact Assessment screening determined that the refurbishment works will have a positive impact on disability, as the ground floor units will become fully accessible. The works are also intended to make the buildings more inclusive and engaging for all residents and visitors.

The refurbishment will also deliver environmental improvements, including the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to support landlord energy use and reduce operational carbon emissions. Improvements to the public realm, including new CCTV and lighting, are expected to enhance safety and help tackle anti-social behaviour.

The decision is subject to a call-in period, which expires on Tuesday 30 June 2026.