This area has a different name depending on who you ask - Upton Park, Green Street, Plaistow, or even West Ham. The variety of names is actually a good metaphor for the diverse and dynamic community that resides there. Whilst Green Street is an iconic cultural centre for Indian commerce, Boleyn Ground is a mecca for diehard West Ham FC fans. Constantly changing yet always welcoming, this area is part of what makes East London unique.

Rich with history, the neighbourhood dates back to the Tudor times – when Green Street provided a pathway through the surrounding marshy landscape. Interestingly, its association with the Boleyn family dates back to the 16th century – when the family established a manor in the area in order to attract princes and suitors. While this was successful, it ultimately ended in a beheading. It was after the intense destruction of the Second World War, that the neighbourhood became a multicultural hub. Today, it is made up largely of Asian and Afro-Caribbean communities. With the Olympic Games in Stratford in 2012, further regeneration took off in the area.

Aside from the area’s interesting history, it’s also notable that the neighbourhood has a memorial to the 1966 World Cup Final – when England won the world cup. Perhaps a memorial to the Women’s team’s success in 2022 will be added in the future.

The area recently lost one of its most treasured features – The Boleyn Ground, where West Ham Football Club used to play. The club relocated to Stratford, leaving the building to be demolished and replaced with new luxury housing. Although this work has reduced anti-social behaviour and noise associated games, it is having a detrimental impact on the local economy and the community’s pride. The site is now being redeveloped, bringing 842 new homes to the area.

Further development is continuing in the area. The council is leading a major regeneration scheme in the neighbourhood. The council is eager to maintain the community essence of the area. In order to do this, they are working to grow local businesses by renovating tired-looking areas.