Redevelopment of Former Highgate Police Station Awarded Planning Permission

Published on 21 April 2015

Following a 12 month design development process, detailed planning permission has been granted for the redevelopment of the former Highgate Police Station and Haringey Magistrate's Court.

The development consists of 82 new homes in Highgate, North London, including 35% affordable housing and much needed family homes for the area.

Located opposite Highgate Woods, the site consists of the former Highgate Police Station, Haringey Magistrate's Court and an office block known as Telfer House. It sits within Highgate Conservation Area, and therefore the impact on this sensitive setting was a key design consideration.

The design principle involves the creation of a landmark tower feature at the confluence of three streets. The massing then steps down to 3 storeys, adjacent to the neighbouring houses. A highly articulated façade is created via the incorporation of inset balconies, protruding bay features and subtle steps in the building line. A perimeter block is created, which appropriately fronts the three surrounding streets: Bishop's Road, Church Road and Archway Road. Behind this, a three-storey Mews Block is set within the landscaped courtyard, which is designed in a more contemporary manner as it is hidden from the main thoroughfares around the site, and is intended to be a "delightful surprise" behind the main building.

A large number of consultation exercises were conducted throughout the development process, including a public exhibition, presentation to Haringey's Design Review Panel and a pre-committee presentation to planning committee members.

The design developed over a period of 12 months, with the close involvement of planning officer with Haringey Council, who recognised the importance of the prestigious site. In the case officer's report for the planning application, the design officer concludes:

"The proposed design... has been well designed to respond to its context yet create a notable, attractive, well composed and well-designed piece of architecture".

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