Derelict hospital buildings in Muswell Hill are set to be turned into more than 160 new homes after Haringey Council approved plans to renovate a historic site.

The former St Luke's Hospital, in Woodside Avenue, will be transformed into affordable housing and homes for older people after proposals were given the green light by the council's planning committee.

Stunning Grade II* listed buildings overlooking Highgate Wood will be carefully refurbished by Hanover Housing Association, while historic gardens will be opened up to the public with a new path through to the centre of the development.

-- Advertisement --

More than 30 per cent of the 161 new flats and houses will be affordable, while 70 per cent of homes will be set aside for older people with an innovative co-housing scheme where residents will share facilities.

Initial plans were turned down by Haringey Council last year because affordable housing was proposed for over-55s only, while concerns were raised about pressures on local school places.

Hanover will now pay nearly £820,000 in planning contributions – with the vast majority funding more places and better facilities at nearby schools.

(CD/MH)