Work has started on a scheme to build 91 new homes.

Construction of the town centre development began in the week of September 2 and will include a park, play area, a pre-school nursery with 53 places, commercial space, and a mini park.

The plan is to redevelop Juniper House in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, which previously housed Waltham Forest Council’s Children and Family services. The services have been relocated to the town hall campus to bring employees into a new fit-for-purpose office.

The scheme is intended to help with the need for housing in the area, and will be prioritised for local people.

Cllr Simon Miller, Waltham Forest Council’s cabinet member for economic growth and housing development, said: “The building of 91 new homes at Juniper House is part of our wider vision to ensure we deliver much needed housing for our local people. We are committed to delivering 1,800 new homes a year over the next ten years.

“Juniper House is in the middle of the town centre and not only are new homes prioritised for local people welcomed, but also the provision of a new nursery, something residents in the area have told us they want.

“The new commercial units will provide employment opportunities for local people while the pocket park, green open space and new cycle routes reflect our commitment to reducing the impact of Climate Change whenever possible.”

The work was designed and will be carried out by building company Hill.

Regional director of Hill, Paul Jordan, said: “We are delighted be partnering once again with Waltham Forest Council on the redevelopment of the Juniper House site in the centre of Walthamstow. We will be demolishing the existing building this autumn, ready for the construction of the new buildings to start in early 2020 and we look forward to welcoming the first residents the following year.”

The council will keep ownership of the land until work is completed to ensure long term benefits for people in the area.