Brick Lane and Banglatown

Brick Lane and Banglatown is Tower Hamlets’ most vibrant and most famous town centre. Its identity is a unique asset drawing from the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of its communities attract people from all over the world. This has always been more than a street: it has welcomed immigrants, local people and visitors for generations, producing the rich blend of cultures, skills and ideas that defines the area today.

That layered history is visible at 59 Brick Lane: a mosque that was previously a synagogue, before that a Methodist church, and before that a Huguenot chapel.

The opportunity

The emerging Local Plan identifies a 20-hectare allocation at Brick Lane and Pedley Street, incorporating residential, retail, workspace and community uses. Individual sites within this allocation are at different stages. New development could unlock homes and significantly more creative and visitor economy jobs while enhancing local identity.

We are proactively shaping planning policy to support this growth. The recently updated Spitalfields and Banglatown SPD is designed to unlock homes and drive the creative and visitor economy.

How we will work with partners

The council will drive forward comprehensive, design-led regeneration, including supporting any required consolidation of land. This is a high-profile and complex redevelopment opportunity that requires effective coordination to get right.

We want to ensure new development is rooted in local identity and the needs of local people. Key priorities include enhancing affordable workspace provision, supporting small businesses, proactive town centre management, and protection of creative industry jobs and businesses.

Brick Lane is a complex, high-profile regeneration opportunity. We’re looking for partners who understand the sensitivity and the potential.