Sisk was delighted to join Haringey’s historic Civic Centre, who hosted a topping out ceremony to mark a major step towards its restoration. Council Leader Cllr Peray Ahmet was joined by Cabinet Member Cllr Ruth Gordon, Mayor of Haringey Cllr Ahmed Mahbub, Chief Executive Andy Donald and Steven McGee, Chief Operating Officer from Sisk, to celebrate the moment the redevelopment reached its highest point.
The scheme will feature high-quality offices accommodating up to 900 staff and restored civic spaces which will be shared with the community in the heart of Wood Green. Prioritising sustainability and energy-efficient design, the major revamp of the Grade II listed building is expected to complete late in 2026 and shortly before Haringey Council takes on the mantle of London Borough of Culture 2027.
Steven McGee, COO, Ireland and UK, Sisk said: "This celebration is a real milestone for the Haringey Civic Centre project. To see the major refurbishment of the original listed building coupled with the development of the new build element coming together is fantastic. Congratulations to Haringey Council and to our team - the project will be a fantastic legacy for the local community once it's complete later this year."
Council Leader Cllr Peray Ahmet said: “I’m delighted to celebrate this milestone, which marks a significant moment in the restoration of this truly iconic building. It has been a fantastic opportunity to see first-hand progress on a project that will re-establish the Civic Centre as the focal point for public life in the very heart of our borough. A dynamic and inclusive space for future generations, the building will provide a hub for civic and community activity alongside high-quality, accessible, and sustainable office accommodation for hundreds of staff. By safeguarding and enhancing the Civic Centre we aim to honour its history and build new memories as we welcome visitors once again.”
First listed by English Heritage in 2018, the building has played a significant role in the political and civic history of the borough since it opened its doors in 1958. The many legendary names to grace the Civic Centre include Bernie Grant, the first-ever black leader of a local authority in Europe, Joyce Butler MP, the first Chairperson of Haringey Council and George Michael who visited to promote the thalassemia campaign.
The project has received positive feedback from residents, who have already taken part in multiple engagement events. The design includes the creation of a central courtyard and landscaping, together with significant improvements to the existing building, such as the installation of insulation throughout and solar panels to boost energy efficiency.
Restoring the treasured landmark is the best value option for the council’s accommodation needs. It also provides opportunities to make alternative use of the council’s existing buildings in Wood Green as part of continued investment in the borough.