Tower Hamlets’ markets in line for regeneration

Watney Market. Pic: Geograph.

Tower Hamlet’s markets will be among some of the nation’s high streets to receive an investment of £100,000 as part of a pilot regeneration scheme. 

The government funding is part of a £1.5 million scheme headed up by consumer queen Mary Portas and is designed to revive flagging high streets and make them the beating hearts of their communities.In Tower Hamlets investment will be primarily focused on Chrisp Street, Watney Market and Roman Road with the money funding number of projects to encourage healthy eating, skills development and new businesses.

Commenting on the news, Mayor Lutfur Rahman said: “This is a great example of how organisations can work together to achieve an outcome that is beneficial for everyone.

“I am committed to improving areas in Tower Hamlets and the fact that we can do that while encouraging residents to live healthier lifestyles is an added bonus.”

Tower Hamlets is one of the biggest winners from the nationwide scheme. Of the three hundred and ninety two bids submitted, Tower Hamlets was one of only fifteen pilot areas selected across the country and further funding will be provided by partners.

Enabling community-appointed champions to take the project forward and develop partnerships in their communities, the funding will also see shops and take-aways provided with advice around offering healthy food, extending initiatives such as the Food for Health award scheme.

The project is the result of an ongoing partnership between NHS East London and the City and the Tower Hamlets Council as part of their commitment to encouraging healthy eating.

While cities and towns across the country may welcome the £ 100,000 government investment from the scheme, questions have been raised as to whether the sum is enough to revive areas so far in decline.

 

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