East Ham & Lonsdale Avenue
This residential neighbourhood sits in the southern pocket of East Ham. Loved for its abundance of green space relative to surrounding areas, Central Park and the attractive rows of Edwardian terraced houses are a highlight. With the strong multicultural communities in the area, the high street benefits through its wide variety of dining options. Locals love the newly opened Rustix Gourmet, a trendy Halal burger joint. In addition to green space and wonderful food options, families are attracted to the area for the strong schools, communities and affordable housing options. Additionally, the area has recently started attracting those interested in the arts. In 2011, Red Door Studios opened, after converting a former glass factory into a community arts space.
The East Ham Jewish Cemetery sits nestled within this neighbourhood. Although there are not many Jewish families in the area anymore, the neighbourhood was once home to a large community. The cemetery was established in 1919 and is home to a group of beautiful painted cloisters, designed by H. W. Ford. Famous Londoners buried in this cemetery include Solomon Mendeloff, who competed as a world boxing champion under the name of Ted “Kid” Lewis who rests alongside 110 survice men from both world wars.
The neighbourhood’s Central Park has been around since the late 19th century. On site, visitors can spot many different artefacts – from a 1920’s water fountain to an urn that was rescued from a demolished building nearby.
Although the area has some Edwardian and Victorian terraced houses, much of the housing options are modest post-war buildings. This has allowed the area’s housing market to remain relatively affordable – making it possible for many London families to become homeowners in the neighbourhood.
While this section of East Ham doesn’t have as many large redevelopment projects going on, as other parts do, the neighbourhood will surely still be affected by incoming investments in surrounding areas. To the north, East Ham Shopping Centre will soon be redeveloped into a new retail, leisure and residential complex. Dransfield Properties have purchased the site and will be working to provide more vibrant public spaces in addition to a fully redeveloped market hall. The developer has also committed to providing nearly 300 new housing units, 35% of which will be affordable. This attention has already begun to change the demographics of the residents moving to the neighbourhood. In recent years, young professionals looking for hip and trendy tips, started a blog-come-Instagram page called East Blam which has attracted people to the area.