New homes in Limehouse

More than 50 Tower Hamlets families and residents have been given keys to their new homes, as a new development in Limehouse opened its doors this month.

In partnership with Tower Hamlets Council, Gallions Housing Association developed 53 new homes in St. Anne’s Row, E14 – including one, two and three bedroom homes.

Built on the site of an old school, the development is made up of two contrasting designs; the original school house, which has been completely refurbished, and a modern new building.

Doris and her husband of 56 years, Arthur Davis, have lived in the area all of their lives and were one of the first to move into the new development.

Doris who had previously gone to school on the site was delighted to move into the building which held so many happy childhood memories.

When showing Mayor Rahman and Tony Cotter, Chief Executive of Gallions Housing Association around her new home, she said:

“I can’t fault the apartment…everyone that has seen it, loves it. And the views are fantastic too. It’s a great feeling to now live in the same building I once went to school in. Now that doesn’t happen everyday!”

Mayor Lutfur Rahman, Tower Hamlets Council, said: “Improving housing and reducing overcrowding are two of my priorities. When I became Mayor I made a pledge to create 4,000 new homes in the next four years, and I am committed to delivering on this promise.

“This development has enabled the borough to retain some of its historic architecture whilst providing more homes for the borough’s residents.”

A range of green energy saving ideas have also been used including photovoltaic panels on two of the blocks and air source heat pumps in 30 of the units. The pumps use heat from the air to provide heating and hot water to the individual flats.

The majority of homes on the development are available at affordable rents.