HORNSEY PARISH HALL / TURKISH COMMUNITY CENTRE

Whilst assisting with a street survey of Hornsey High Street on Saturday (identifying issues which, when collated, will be passed to the council to see what, if anything, can be addressed) we were kindly invited in to see the Hornsey Parish Hall in the process of major refurbishment to a Turkish Community Centre.

Myself, Cllr Monica Whyte and another resident were shown several rooms in stages of completion.

Those we spoke to explained that funding had been provided by people in Turkey to benefit Turkish people in Hornsey. It will have various uses – general community meeting rooms; formal meting rooms; prayer rooms; rooms for hire.

Having not been inside for many decades I recalled a very dilapidated interior.

What has been done is amazing.

The exterior is virtually complete with all brickwork and stained glass renovated to a high standard – including bricks newly made in Turkey to exactly match the originals in this John Farrer building at a cost of £10 each.

Wonderful tiles on walls. Crystal chandeliers.

Original features on ceilings remain.

Wood panelling and doors have been repaired or remade to match.

Wooden flooring is lovely as is the thick new carpet.

The opening is in 4-6 weeks and I hope to attend.

I was impressed with the workmanship and the friendly reception given to us.

Hopefully this becomes a well loved and well used community facility.