Children at one of the capital’s leading special schools are set for state-of-the-art new facilities after the centre agreed a deal with Haringey Council for a new home.
Subject to planning permission, The London Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy will develop a modern campus at their current temporary site in Coppetts Road – currently owned by the council – with a new hydrotherapy pool and outdoor learning space for pupils.
The council’s Cabinet agreed last night (Tuesday, 20th October) to sell the land in Coppetts Road to the centre in exchange for the lease in a new development on the site of the former Green Man pub in Muswell Hill – with six new shared ownership homes among the proposals.
Cllr Alan Strickland, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, said: “We’re really pleased to have struck a deal which secures a long-term future for such a respected institution in our borough.
“This new site will offer children modern, high-quality facilities that will help them fulfil their potential – as well bringing more much-needed affordable housing to the heart of Muswell Hill.”
The centre offers education for three to 11-year-olds, after-school groups for children and young people with dyspraxia and hemiplegia, early intervention services and training for parents and professionals.
Jo Honigmann, Chief Executive of The London Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy said: “We are so excited about the opportunity this presents for our children and their families.
“Having a building that is set far back from the road, and with the option to expand further as need demands, allows us every opportunity to increase our reach and work with more children who can benefit from our services”.
Samantha Hyde, director of the centre’s funding campaign that has raised £1.5million so far, says: “The generosity of the developers, who gifted us the original building, has got this journey off the ground.
“Without this initial boost, the incredible opportunity that we now have would never have been possible. We are very grateful to SaS Investments, the developers, and Haringey Council for all their support.”