Regeneration in Tower Hamlets

East London skyline

Why regeneration matters

Tower Hamlets is one of the UK’s fastest‑growing and most diverse boroughs. The population has doubled in 30 years and will rise by almost 100,000 more by 2031. Jobs are expanding rapidly, but inequalities in health, income and opportunity persist. Regeneration ensures growth benefits everyone — improving neighbourhoods, quality of life and access to opportunity.

Our approach 

People‑ and place‑led

Regeneration focuses on eight Catalytic Places where the biggest change and opportunity will occur:

  • Canary Wharf

  • South Poplar & Isle of Dogs

  • Whitechapel

  • Brick Lane & Banglatown

  • Shoreditch & Aldgate

  • Hackney Wick & Fish Island

  • Leaside

  • Central Tower Hamlets

By planning for whole places rather than individual sites, we can shape long‑term, coordinated change that strengthens identity and delivers meaningful outcomes.

Working beyond “business as usual”

We collaborate across the council and with partners such as the GLA, TfL, housing associations, developers and community organisations to:

  • unlock complex sites

  • coordinate infrastructure

  • secure affordable homes and workspaces

  • support local economies

  • improve public spaces and connectivity

A focus on estate regeneration

The scale of estate regeneration in Tower Hamlets is significant. We are not only delivering regeneration within our existing estates, but also working with registered providers to facilitate the provision of new affordable housing to meet the borough’s housing needs.

Alongside wider estate regeneration, we are also delivering housing opportunities on a single-site basis that combined make a significant contribution to the overall provision of new affordable housing.

We work closely with community groups and other stakeholders through the design and development process.

What regeneration will offer

1: Homes and neighbourhoods


Home and Neighbourhoods

More high‑quality, genuinely affordable homes (including family housing) that will be delivered through council programmes and partnerships. Estate regeneration will modernise homes, improve public spaces and create healthier, more resilient neighbourhoods.

 

 

2. Jobs, skills and economic opportunity

Jobs and skills economy

Supporting key sectors such as finance, tech, life sciences, creative industries, visitor economy and SMEs through modern workspaces, stronger supply chains and better skills pathways for residents.

 

3. Thriving high streets and town centres

Whitechapel Market high street

Revitalising high streets, markets and town centres by supporting traders, improving public spaces and strengthening local services and cultural life.

 

 

4. Infrastructure for growth

Infrastructure for growth

Investing in transport, bridges, schools, health facilities and community spaces. Major projects like the Mayer Parry Bridge will unlock new homes and improve connectivity.

 

 

 

5. A greener, healthier borough

Greener healthier borough

Cleaner air, better walking and cycling routes, more green space and climate‑resilient neighbourhoods that support wellbeing and sustainable growth.

 

 

 

Working with partners

We offer:

  • a single point of contact

  • clear priorities

  • support for high‑quality development

  • long‑term partnership working

  • use of enabling powers where needed

We welcome investment that delivers real benefits for local people.

Involving communities

Residents help shape regeneration through consultations, workshops and co‑design. Visit the Let's Talk Tower Hamlets website to get involved.

Monitoring progress

We track housing delivery, economic growth, infrastructure progress and social value to ensure regeneration improves people’s lives.

Find out more

Explore regeneration priorities and Future Places at Love Tower Hamlets website and in the Future Places prospectus.