215 new social rent homes nearing completion at Holloway Park

The three-stage development is planned to deliver more than 900 new homes, with more than half in the first phase affordable. There are expected to be 415 social rent homes in total. Most 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 being built by not-for-profit housing association Peabody, in conjunction with the Greater London Authority, who provided grant funding, and construction partner London Square. In addition to the new homes, it will provide a 1.4-acre public park, landscaped pedestrian routes, and a new 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 percent of apprenticeship roles to be filled by women.    

Simon Barry, Regional Managing Director at Peabody, said: “Holloway Park marks a new chapter for this historic site, transforming it into a welcoming and vibrant new neighbourhood with much-needed new homes. We’re proud to be driving this transformation - creating a place where people can live well, enjoy the green spaces - many of which will be open to the public for the first time in generations - and be part of a strong community.   

“Reaching this topping out point is an exciting milestone for the first phase, with 429 new homes - including 215 for social rent - now well on their way to completion. We look forward to seeing families moving in from 2027.”  

Elly Hoult, Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Chief Executive of Peabody, added: “This development reflects the site’s rich heritage, with a Women’s Building offering services shaped through consultation with local women. Equally, it’s creating real pathways for women into construction, from apprenticeships to leadership roles, tackling the skills shortage and building a stronger, more inclusive workforce for the future.”  

Jo McDonagh, Managing Director North, London Square, said: “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.”  

Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development, said: “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.”  

Cllr Una O’Halloran, Leader of Islington Council, said: “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 percent 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 square metres 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 percent 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.”  

Representatives from Peabody and their partners held a topping out ceremony on Friday 17 October. Guests included Caroline Corby, chair of Peabody, Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London, and Cllr Jason Jackson, Mayor of Islington.