CONTACTA landmark moment has been reached at Holloway Park, the redevelopment of the former Holloway Prison site, with the topping out of the first phase of homes - including 215 social rent homes.
These homes are set to be ready for local families by 2027, marking a major step forward in delivering much-needed affordable housing in Islington.
The three-stage development will deliver close to 1000 new homes, with 60% allocated to affordable housing. Most of the social rent homes will have two or three bedrooms, making them ideal for families. The first phase will also include 60 one-bedroom extra-care homes and a sensory garden, providing a mix of housing and community spaces.
Holloway Park is a partnership between London Square, housing association Peabody, and the Greater London Authority. In addition to the new homes, it will provide a 1.4-acre public park, landscaped pedestrian routes, and a Women’s Building, offering vital support services for women in the community.
Sustainability is central to the scheme. The new homes will feature air-source heat pumps, solar panels and electric vehicle charging points, helping to reduce carbon emissions. The legacy of the former prison will be honoured through a series of public artworks inspired by its history.
Holloway Park is also creating opportunities for local people, with construction apprenticeships and an on-site “green skills” training hub helping residents get experience and qualifications in the construction sector. The aim is for at least 30% of apprenticeship roles to be filled by women.
“Holloway Park is delivering more than just homes for London. It’s an uplifting scheme that sets the bar for regenerating public land and creating sustainable, liveable places that meet local need. Collaboration is at the core of this success, and I’d like to thank the GLA, Islington Council, Peabody and community for their ongoing support as we celebrate this moment.”
“I am delighted to see the Holloway Park development reach this important milestone. Delivering 215 social rent homes for the local community funded by the Mayor’s Affordable Homes Programme, it will support the urgent need for new, affordable homes for Londoners as we build a better, fairer London for everyone.”
"It's great to see these homes taking shape. Topping out is a major milestone for the project and a clear sign that the first phase of Holloway Park is heading confidently towards completion. For the borough, that means 215 urgently needed social rent homes are
well on their way. We look forward to welcoming families into these new homes from 2027.”
“Holloway Park is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring truly affordable homes to Islington, with 215 social rent homes nearing completion in this first phase. The overall scheme will deliver 985 homes, 60% of which will be affordable, including extra-care housing for those who need it most.
“And there’s more than housing. The development will open up 10,000 sq m of public green space, including a major new park and nature garden. It will also create a dedicated Women’s Building offering vital support services.
“It’s creating opportunities for local people too, with 51 apprenticeships secured so far, 30% of which are for women, and a Green Skills Hub helping residents gain qualifications. These homes, some with the best views in London, show what’s possible when people are put first.”
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