Penstock Tunnel improvements
Penstock Tunnel improvements
The Penstock Tunnel project is part of the Connecting Wood Green programme and will deliver public realm and lighting improvements along the New River Path, between the Cultural Quarter in Wood Green and Alexandra Park in Hornsey.
Penstock Tunnel has a long history dating back to the 1850’s. It was built as part of the construction of the Great North Eastern Railway line leading out of London from Kings Cross Station. Following the success of the railway, development of the line continued with the introduction of additional tracks, increasing the length of Penstock Tunnel itself.
Inside the tunnel, there are 2 differently shaped arched ceilings and a flat concrete ceiling. There are also large pipes throughout. These are what give the tunnel its name, with “Penstock” meaning a pipe for conveying water.
Whilst the tunnel is well used during the day as a key route between Wood Green, Hornsey and Alexandra Park, after dark it is considered unsafe and as a result, many avoid it. We’ve collaborated with architecture studio We Made That to help change this. Our plans for Penstock will keep the existing structure as it is but provide a new drainage system to stop the leaking roof above. In addition, we want to repair and repaint the large water pipes. New lighting will also be introduced to provide an improved and safer experience for pedestrians and cyclists.
There’s been lengthy consultation with Network Rail to find a solution to various water seepage issues that exist within the tunnel. As of early 2024, the team has remobilised with the aim of progressing Network Rail’s preferred solution.
Public art project
As part of the Penstock Tunnel improvements, there will be a public art project which aims to activate and energise the space. Architecture studio We Made That and artist Emma Smith held an open public event at the Tunnel. This was to explore how light and colour make us feel and contribute ideas towards the artwork being created as part of the designs. The event was well attended by Heartlands School, local residents and community groups and general passers-by.
We will progress further with designs and hold a public engagement event once more detailed proposals have been developed. Keep checking back for updates.
Project documents and details
- About the project (PDF, 785KB)
- Challenges and opportunities (PDF, 480KB)
- Guiding principles for the project (PDF, 1MB)
- Eastern entrance and tunnel (PDF, 2.7MB)
- Western entrance and river path (PDF, 2.1MB)
- Artwork concept (PDF, 777KB)
- Lighting concept (PDF, 434KB)
Proposed Designs
We’re delighted to present design proposals to improve Penstock Tunnel and the public space at the entrance of the tunnel. Our aim is to create a safe, and welcoming space that will be well used and help to improve connections between Wood Green and Alexandra Park.
Exhibition boards detailing the proposals can be viewed here and an audio recording is also available.
Listen to our Plans for Penstock Tunnel:
Note for iPhone users and Youtube. There is a known bug with iOS and Youtube, Two buttons are read before the player but provide no functionality. We advise that you skip these to access the content.