Globe Town is an appropriate name for this area bursting with one of the most wonderfully diverse communities of London. Boasting large Bangladeshi, Turkish, Arabic and Chinese communities, this north-eastern section of Bow is not only multicultural but also home to wonderful public spaces. Victoria Park, one of the highlights of the area, is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and even hosts summer festivals like Lovebox, Field Day and All Points East.

The area has changed quite a bit over the years though. Crucial to the neighbourhood’s history is the construction of Hertford Union canal, which linked up the area with trade in the docklands, sparking the arrival of industry. As the population in the neighbourhood grew exponentially, the local authorities began to recognise the need for public services and spaces. With this in mind, Victoria Park was opened in 1845 in order to provide recreational space and improve the health of the public. The area’s destruction during the Second World War led to the construction of social housing. Unfortunately, following the wars, the area was plagued by economic and social deprivation. It wasn’t until the years leading up to the 2012 Olympics that true regeneration took place.

Even Londoners who do not frequently visit the area surely know a bit about the neighbourhood’s history. The area is well known for the role it played in securing rights for women throughout the country. During World War One, Sylvia Pankhurst lived on Old Ford Road. It was from this home that she helped lead the East London branch of the suffragette movement. While living in the neighbourhood, she boasted that “in Kensington or Chelsea you get bricks and mortar, but here we all know each other, and it is very friendly.”

While the area is an eclectic destination in many ways, its high street remains rather sparse. As a result, local amenities are relatively more limited than they are in other areas. Additionally, some residents closer to Victoria park found that the festivals hosted in the summer can lead to higher rates of antisocial behaviour.

In order to continue the growth of the neighbourhood, the Borough of Tower Hamlets is planning to improve the green corridor between Mile End Park and Victoria Park. Renovated and expanded footways and green spaces should encourage locals to walk more, reviving the area in its own subtle way. The council has also recently agreed to Section 106, which promises to drive up the quality of affordable homes in one of London’s fastest growing boroughs. Broadway East is an example of one of these developments, occupying the abandoned Marian Place Gasholders. The development comprises 555 homes, including 35% affordable housing, and 1.75 acres of public open space which will retain the iconic frames of both gasholders no.2 and no.5.