The ongoing redevelopment in Edmonton has been recognised nationally after a number of milestones were reached this year

Enfield Council leader Nesil Caliskan (right) with one of the first new residents at Meridian Water and (left) deputy mayor of London Tom Copley

Enfield Council’s flagship Meridian Water redevelopment in Edmonton has been named ‘best local authority initiative’ as part of a national awards scheme.

Not-for-profit group Revo, which says it “supports the interests and values of the retail, leisure, and placemaking real estate community” picked Meridian Water for its award category presented to schemes led by local councils.

The award “reflects recently completed milestones” including the completion of the first council homes on the site three months ago, the opening of Enfield Construction Skills Academy, and the creation of a temporary community garden.

The Revo’s award highlights “public sector regeneration programmes at their very best with an emphasis on keeping local residents at the heart of its delivery”.

As well this year’s milestones, Meridian Water also boasts a film studios complex, an open-access workshop, and a new railway station which opened in 2019.

However, the project has also been heavily criticised by some councillors and campaigners who say it has taken too long, contains insufficient green space, and lacks an up-to-date masterplan. There are also doubts over the feasibility of the 10,000 homes target set by the council.

Reacting to the award, council leader Nesil Caliskan said: “The council-led regeneration of Meridian Water is helping make the neighbourhood a great place to live, with more and better homes alongside new opportunities for Edmonton residents.

“We are thrilled to see Meridian Water receive another award for Enfield Council’s innovative approach to public sector regeneration schemes. 2023 has been a big year for the project, with several major milestones achieved. Meridian Water is rapidly picking up pace and becoming an example to other councils on how regeneration can benefit everyone.”

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