Northumberland Park Neighbourhood Resource Centre

bptw partnership’s designs for the award-winning Northumberland Park Neighbourhood Centre have created a new focus for the Tottenham community.

Opened in 2004 by Lord Rooker, former Minister for Regeneration, the resource centre has transformed what was a disused shopping precint and podium which previously posed security issues for the local community.

The design brief for the Northumberland Park Neighbourhood Resource Centre was developed in partnership with the Local Authority, regional and local development agencies, key stakeholders and local residents.

Innovative reuse of existing materials on the site provides an energy-efficient solution throughout the construction and use of the resource centre. Contemporary finishes and full height glazing to the front entrance defines the centre with a strong street frontage. Demolition of the podium has created landscaped areas for social interaction and events in a safe and overlooked environment.

A lightwell atrium and sunpipe, along with brightly coloured finishes reflect light throughout the interior spaces. The result is a popular and well-used resource. The neighbourhood centre houses Sure Start, Learn Direct, Connexions and the Primary Care Trust plus services and events to reflect local community needs. It is a catalyst for the regeneration of the local area.

The Northumberland Park Neighbourhood Resource Centre was listed for Open House London 2005, was shortlisted for the ODPM Sustainable Communities Award in 2004 and achieved a Mention in the Civic Trust Awards.

Fact file

Location: Tottenham, London

Client: Newlon Housing Trust and the London Borough of Haringey