The Tower Gardens estate in North Tottenham was built between 1904 and 1928 on a distinctive semi-circular layout bounded by Lordship Lane and the Roundway and .
At the cutting edge of housing design and thinking, it was the largest of the four original London County Council (LCC) cottage estates and the first to be built outside the LCC administrative area.
Haringey Council’s cabinet this week approved a contract for almost £3.4m to refurbish 77 historic properties.
Homes will get new roofs, windows and entrance doors, making them more energy efficient.
Other planned improvements include repairs to external brickwork, renewal of fencing and levelling of pathways.
The project follows extensive engagement with residents to ensure work reflected their priorities and with the council’s conservation team to preserve the architectural integrity of the estate.
Cllr Sarah Williams, deputy leader and cabinet member for housing and planning, said: “I’m delighted we will be able to start this project, which is a significant investment.
“The programme marks a vital step toward enhancing the long-term sustainability, safety, and quality of our homes—ultimately enriching the lives of our residents.”
“Tenants have been heavily involved in designing the changes, and we remain committed to maintaining open and transparent communication throughout the delivery.
“This is an important moment for the community living on Tower Gardens, who will benefit from energy efficient homes, cutting bills for low-income families.”
The estate is now a conservation area, meaning design features on the fronts of the buildings – including the privet hedges – are protected.
Working with English Heritage, the council published special planning guidance to protect its quality Arts and Crafts architectural features.
The council has set a target of ensuring all council homes meet the decent homes standard by 2028, with significant investment planned for new kitchens and bathrooms, improvements to heating and electrical systems and roof, window and door replacements.
