A familiar rumble of bowling balls, the joyous shouts of a birthday party, the nervous energy of a first date – these are the sounds that could soon fade from Finsbury Park. Rowans Tenpin Bowl, a local landmark for over three decades, is facing a potential demolition as redevelopment plans loom large.
Haringey Council is currently reviewing a new local plan that designates the bowling alley’s site as potentially suitable for a massive housing project: up to 190 new flats. This isn’t the first time Rowans has been threatened, but the release of the latest draft plan has ignited a fresh wave of concern and outrage among residents who cherish this community hub.
The council’s vision for the next fifteen years includes identifying areas for growth, and unfortunately, Rowans has been on that list since 2017. While the plan acknowledges the need to preserve the character of the surrounding area and improve access to Finsbury Park, it also opens the door for tall buildings – potentially overshadowing the beloved bowling alley.
Opened in 1988, Rowans quickly became a cornerstone of local life. Generations have celebrated milestones within its walls, creating a shared history that many are now determined to protect. Locals are even exploring the possibility of securing listed building status for the venue, hoping to safeguard its future.
This isn’t a new battle. In 2014 and 2015, similar redevelopment proposals sparked fierce opposition, culminating in a petition that garnered over 5,000 signatures. The current consultation, with a deadline of December 19th, represents another critical moment for the bowling alley’s survival.
The council maintains that there are currently no concrete plans to demolish Rowans. However, they also state that any future proposals from the site owner would need to incorporate community, culture, and leisure facilities – a bowling alley included. This offers a glimmer of hope, but leaves the future uncertain.
The debate highlights a common struggle: balancing the need for new housing with the preservation of cherished community spaces. For many, Rowans isn’t just a bowling alley; it’s a repository of memories, a place of connection, and a vital part of Finsbury Park’s identity.
The fate of Rowans now rests in the hands of the council and the voices of the community. The consultation period is a crucial opportunity for residents to express their support and fight to keep the strikes rolling for years to come.
