Haringey Council Pauses Pavilion Rent Listing After Resident Outcry

Tottenham residents have voiced concerns over the potential private use of Tower Gardens Park after a community pavilion was advertised for commercial rent. The listing for Tower Gardens Community Corner pavilion, which was leased to a local group for a year in August 2026, sparked fears that the surrounding public space could be lost to private development.

Concerns Over Commercial Listing

The pavilion, which had been transformed by a campaign group into a community hub, was advertised for £45,000 annually. This move raised alarms among residents and the group managing the space, Tower Gardens Community Corner (TGCC). Kate Swade, chair of TGCC, expressed worries that the park could be 'carved up for private use and profit'. She highlighted that the advert's claims of 'ample' outdoor space and parking were inaccurate given its park location, and that cordoning off parts of the park for private use would fundamentally alter its nature.

TGCC had been using the pavilion for various activities, including a drop-in play area, a 'living room' space, self-defence classes, and a repair café. Residents reported that since the group began operating, the area feels more welcoming than when it was previously occupied by a charity with limited hours, which had attracted anti-social behaviour. The group fears the pavilion could be leased to a private nursery or café, or remain vacant, given the low footfall and the rental cost.

Council Response and Future Plans

Following public outcry and a petition gaining traction, Haringey Council has reportedly paused viewings and removed the online advertisement for the pavilion. Councillor Ata Berk Aksit, Haringey Council Cabinet Member for Communities, stated the administration's commitment to keeping neighbourhood assets within the community. He confirmed that the lease with TGCC was intended as a temporary measure while a long-term occupier was sought. The council is currently working with inherited policies that consider social value and is developing new community-focused policies to empower local residents in decisions about neighbourhood assets.

Councillor Aksit acknowledged that the marketing of the pavilion could have been communicated better and stated that the council is working to resolve concerns. He clarified that the marketing specifically related to the pavilion building and not the wider park, which is designated as Significant Local Open Land. The council aims to secure the best outcome for the park, the pavilion, and the community.

The council communicated with TGCC regarding the marketing plans and the advertisement going live. As a result of the concerns raised, the advertisement has been withdrawn while a way forward is agreed. Residents are urging the council to take the pavilion off the market and allow the not-for-profit community space to continue its lease, while also seeking protection for the park from future exclusive use.