Invest Waltham Forest Encouraging Investment in Waltham Forest ISSUE 4

Invest Waltham Forest Encouraging investment in Waltham Forest ISSUE 4

Festivals, film, Evening economy, Private/public: focused design established enterprise pulling forces Galliard_Leyton_InvWaltFor_DPS_Jan18Galliard_Leyton_InvWaltFor_DPS_Jan18 09/01/2018 09/01/2018 15:58 15:58 Page Page 1 1

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GalliardGalliard Homes Homes are are proud proud to to be be working working with with the the LondonLondon Borough Borough of of Waltham Waltham Forest. Forest. galliardhomes.com/church-roadgalliardhomes.com/church-road 518518 HIGH-QUALITYHIGH-QUALITY HOMES. HOMES. 55%55% AFFORDABLE.AFFORDABLE. WORKINGWORKING NPINI PARTNERSHIPARTNERSHIP WWITHITH WALTHAM FORESTFOREST TO CONTRIBUTECONTRIBUTE TO TO HEBTHET BOROUGH’SOROUGH'S ONGOINGONGOING REGENERATION.REGENERATION

Hadley Property Group is one of London's fastest-growing Pollard Thomas Edwards has an excellent track record residential developers, and are specialists in the delivery of creating award-winning developments in London and specialise HadleyHadley PropertyProperty GroupGroup IsIs oneone ofof l!ondon'sfastest-growing fastest-growing PollardPollard irhomasEdwards Edwards hashas anan excellentexcellent tracKtracK recordrecord creacrea •• high-quality,res1dentIalres1dentIal developers,developers, design-led andand schemes. areare specIal1stsspecIal1sts The company's InIn thethe deliverydelivery pipeline ofof h1ghh1gh will award-winningaward-winningin the creation developmentsdevelopments of new in inneighbourhoods l!ondonandand specialisespecialise and the inin ththrevitalisation of bringciual1ty, moredesign-led design-led than 2200 schemesschemes homes TheThe to company'scompany's the market p1pel1nep1pel1ne across willwill London bnngbnng moremore and ofof newnewold neighbourhoodsneighbourhoods ones. P-T designed andand thethe The revitalisationrevitalisation Scene, the ofof oldoldaward-winning ones.ones. P-T retail, thethanthan south-east 22002200 homeshomes and toto has thethe marketmarketa combined acrossacross GDV LondonLondon of £1.4 andand thethebn. south-eastsouth-east designeddesignedresidential TheThe Scene,Scene, and thethe Cinema award-winningaward-winning development retail,retail, r residentialesonide thential High anan Street. •• • • CinemaCinema developmentdevelopment onon thethe r.iighStreet.Street. www.hadleypropertygroup.comwww.hadleypropertygroup.comwww.hadleypropertygroup.com www.pollardthomasedwards.co.ukwww.pollardthomasedwards.co.ukwww.pollardthomasedwards.co.uk Editor-in-chief James Wood News and digital editor Natalie Vincent Production manager Chris Hazeldine Editorial assistants Tilly Shenstone, Mia Wicks Contents Art direction Smallfury Designs Senior business development manager Shelley Cook Business development director Paul Gussar Office and projects manager Sue Mapara Subscriptions manager Simon Maxwell Managing director Toby Fox 26

Cover Image God’s Own Junkyard, photo by Jo Amelia Finlay Bever (CC BY 2.0) Images: Dirk Lindner, Christian Bertrand, Baz Seal, Agnese Sanvito, MIKESCOTTINDY, Hidden London, TfL, ourgaze, Helen Maurer, intereverything, Carol Barber, Florrie Coster, Vestry House Museum, London Borough of Waltham Forest, Gar Powell-Evans, Penny Dampier, GLL/Better, Simon 15 56 Taylor, Swan Architects, Sara Lynd Photography,

Ewan Munro, Pollard Tomas 5 Edwards, Matt Brown, Carmel King Photo 7 News 33 Interviews Contents

Printed by Nature reserves, cultural hubs Waltham Forest’s recently The Manson Group and quality housing: the latest on appointed council leader and U+I’s Published by regeneration in Waltham Forest. deputy development chief outline their priorities for the borough. Culture-led regeneration Sunley House Bedford Park 39 Housing Croydon CR0 2AP Waltham Forest is prioritising 020 7978 6840 culture in different ways: As ever, housing is a hot topic: 3foxinternational.com could Waltham Forest help find the

Waltham Forest Council 15 Entertainment venues answer to London’s problems? Waltham Forest Town Hall 701 Forest Road, E17 4JF Iconic cinemas and music venues 45 Map and projects restored to their former glory. Subscriptions and feedback We outline the progress on key investwalthamforest.com development schemes. 20 Night-time economy © 3Fox International Limited 2018. All material is strictly A boosted night-time economy copyright and all rights are 52 New ways to work reserved. Reproduction in spurred by the night tube and new whole or in part without the places to visit in the evening. Collaboration is key, as new written permission of 3Fox International Limited is strictly facilities for self-employed people, forbidden. The greatest care has been taken to ensure the 24 Festivals and events manufacturers and gardeners open. accuracy of information in this magazine at time of going Summer festivals and other to press, but we accept no 56 Retail and innovation responsibility for omissions entertainment in Waltham Forest. or errors. The views expressed in this magazine are not New businesses are being boosted necessarily those of 3Fox International Limited. 26 Design in focus – bespoke bikes is one example. Investigating the borough’s 58 Sitematch architectural landscape, with its award-winning developments. Opportunity sites at Lea Bridge. Developing exceptional homes in Waltham Forest

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Europe’s biggest urban wetlands opens in Walthamstow More than 5,000 visitors attended It has now been named as a have both had extensive renovation the opening of Walthamstow Site of Special Scientific Interest works as part of the programme. Wetlands during the weekend of (SSSI), due to the large number of A new cafe and visitor centre is 20-22 October 2017. wading and nesting birds that flock located in the Engine House, which Europe’s largest urban wetland to it each year. was first constructed in 1894, and nature reserve was made accessible Veronica Chrisp, director of was originally named the Ferry Lane to the public for the first time in Walthamstow Wetlands was Pumping Station. 150 years, with visitors enjoying pleased with the public reaction to Featuring an educational space, a range of activities such as the opening. She said: “We were it will host school trips, as well as cycling, angling, volunteering and overwhelmed by the interest that childrens’ activities such as painting birdwatching over the weekend, in Walthamstow Wetlands generated and crafts. bright and breezy conditions. on our opening weekend. A new 24-metre high swift tower The wetlands are free to visit “In the first week alone, more than was added to the building containing and were funded by £10.6 million 5,000 people from the borough 54 specially installed nest boxes to from Waltham Forest Council, and beyond walked, jogged, cycled, attract urban swifts. The interior also Thames Water and the Heritage puddle-jumped, birdwatched, fished includes a snug roost for bats. Lottery Fund. The redevelopement and ultimately, thoroughly enjoyed Chrisp added: “The Engine of the 211-ha site was created from their way around our wonderful and House has been a real hub with the pre-existing Walthamstow accessible site.” visitors enjoying a range of fun and Reservoirs, which supplies around Two listed buildings, the Marine educational activities and browsing 3.5 million people with water. Engine House and Coppermill Tower and relaxing in our shop and cafe.” change of hands Developer Telford Homes will bring 340 homes to Walthamstow, following its purchase of the 1.28-ha Equipment Works scheme on Forest Road from developer U+I and Parkdale Investments. The exchange of contracts was agreed in December 2017 for £33.9 million. Detailed planning permission for 257 open market homes, 80 homes planned as affordable and 1,749sq m of commercial space is in place and Telford Homes is also exploring options for build-to-rent homes. Jon Di-Stefano, Telford Homes’ chief executive, said: “This acquisition not only adds to our 8 substantial development pipeline,

News but should further enhance our reputation as a significant developer of build-to-rent housing in London.” Work is expected to begin in autumn 2018 with completion set for late 2021.

TfL teams-up for housing scheme Transport for London (TfL) has named housing developer BLLQ, a consortium formed of Barratt London and London & Quadrant as a partner for its first housing development Creative hub scoops Mayor’s Prize project in the Blackhorse Road area of Waltham Forest. Waltham Forest’s Central Parade the transformation of Central Parade The housing plan for the 0.72-ha has won the 2017 New London has been recognised in this way. We site will see 350 new homes built Architecture Mayor’s Prize. were up against many worthwhile opposite Blackhorse Road tube The building dates from the projects from all over Greater station, with approximately half 1960s and was refurbished last London, Central Parade won as it earmarked as affordable housing. It is year by Gort Scott Architects. It best reflected the mayor’s ambition expected to be completed by 2022. now provides up to 50 creative for good growth”. Graeme Craig, director of businesses with studios and co- The building was also commercial development for TfL working spaces, as well as a cafe, recommended in the ‘Meanwhile’ said: “We are thrilled to be working bakery and events space. category, which highlights projects with BLLQ to deliver hundreds of Councillor Simon Miller, cabinet that “embrace the city as a work in homes for Londoners with excellent member for economic growth and progress, while supporting “long- transport links and just a short high streets at Waltham Forest term ambitions”, as the rest of the journey from central London.” Council, said: “We are thrilled that building is refurbished. Waltham Forest gets Stars back Waltham Forest’s culture prize bid first 100% housing Key figures from the arts and be the first time a London borough scheme in London entertainment world have backed will be recognised for its cultural Waltham Forest’s bid for the London impact and importance, with a prize Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has Borough of Culture 2019 award. of £1 million awarded to the winning announced a 100% affordable Blur's Damon Albarn, author authority to be spent on local culture housing scheme for first-time and journalist Dreda Say Mitchell, events and initiatives. buyers in Waltham Forest, which photographer David Bailey CBE and Waltham Forest's bid was launched he said will be the first of its kind ballet master Sir Matthew Bourne by the artists Bob and Roberta Smith for London. have all lent their support for the at the Walthamstow Garden Party in Webbs Industrial Estate on borough’s submission in a joint letter Lloyd Park on 1 July 2017, which was Sutherland Road was purchased signed by 50 artists. attended by about 30,000 people. last November by City Hall as Bailey said: "Waltham Forest is an The borough launched its part of its £3.15 billion Affordable example of London at its cultural "150 Cultural Gems of Waltham Homes programme. The site, best, as a vibrant and growing hub Forest" initiative in the run-up to the which previously housed a for artists, performers and creative 1 December deadline for London lightbulb factory, had not been start-ups. Not only would winning councils to submit their bid. used for 13 years. the title of London's first Borough Up to 150 events, highlights and With 330 homes due to be built, of Culture bring valuable investment local landmarks have been promoted Khan wants homes to be available

here, it would also provide the much- for consideration by the Mayor of 9 for shared ownership. deserved recognition and support London’s office. He said: “I’m doing all I can to News for Waltham Forest's artistic and The competition is now closed and help fix London’s housing crisis, entrepreneurial communities." the mayor of London will announce but it will take time to turn things Following a similar model to the the London Boroughs of Culture for around. I’ve been honest from UK City of Culture awards, this will 2019 and 2020 in February 2018. the start – this is going to be a marathon, not a sprint. But we’re already taking big steps forward – my new planning rules will help raise affordable housing levels in new developments, and my £3.15 billion funding deal with the government will help to build an extra 90,000 genuinely affordable homes to rent and buy.” The development will also include a creative hub, providing more than 3,000sq m of affordable workspace and artist studios, a park and retail space. Catalyst will be working with Swan Housing Association and C.F. Møller Architects. Councillor Clare Coghill, leader of Waltham Forest Council, said: “We are really pleased that the first site of 100% affordable London housing will be found in Waltham Forest, regenerating an old disused factory.” council launches investment portfolio Future optimistic for young buyers Waltham Forest Council has restaurant and residential homes. purchased its first property as a It already houses a number of Research carried out in the first step towards building its own businesses including a recording London Borough of Waltham investment portfolio. studio, film companies, graphics and Forest has found that young people Progressing its plan to become a animation companies, yoga studios, have positive expectations about “self-funded council”, the purchase branding consultants and publishers. owning property in the future, of the Tramworks site located next to Councillor Simon Miller, cabinet despite well-documented news that the Former EMD Cinema is expected member for economic growth and home-ownership is becoming an to attract more new business to high streets, said: “This purchase is increasingly distant prospect. what is being called the Hoe Street the first step in growing our portfolio This is according to research “creative corridor”. of investments to help build a findings announced at the The Tramworks is a mixed-use sustainable future. The Tramworks Waltham Forest Housing Summit converted former warehouse, is an excellent start and fits our on 6 September 2017, carried out comprising 2,010sq m of studio ambitions to grow the local economy by community consultants Kaizen space, an open plan office, a and create thriving town centres.” and Social Life, and Waltham Forest Young Advisers, on the expectations and concerns of young people in the borough when it comes to housing. Conclusions drawn from the interviews were that although young people felt current housing is expensive and hard to access in Waltham Forest, they still had high expectations about owning their own homes in the future; with around four in 10 young people 10 expecting to have family support

News to help buy a home, which is lower than the national average. Around 300 attendees at the summit listened to the findings, including key housing policy makers and a range of councils and industry figures. Conducted through street interviews, a cross section of people were interviewed. Of those spoken to, 13% were under 18, 49% were aged 18 to 24 and 32% were 25 to music venue to stage comeback 35 years old. Councillor Khevyn Limbajee, Planning permission has been 2011 by Turkish Food Centre, cabinet member for housing, spoke granted for a new basement music which worked with the council’s about the local authority’s housing venue to open on the site of the regeneration team to ensure its plans: “As a council, it is one of old Standard performance space continuation as a music space. our key priorities to provide on Blackhorse Lane. Councillor Simon Miller, lead more affordable and accessible The redevelopment will also member for economic growth and housing for residents – especially feature 50 flats, a supermarket and high streets, said: “The council’s young people. a bar. vision for this Blackhorse Lane “Many still have the aspiration The Standard was famous for development is to build new of owning their own home but are hosting music artists Suzi Quatro homes, provide new shops, and unable to afford it. and Kula Shaker and comedians create a welcoming environment “This means we need to make such as Alan Davies, Harry Enfield for musicians and performers sure we have the right housing and Jack Dee. where they can perfect their craft.” options and support for them, be it A dedicated performance venue Read more about The Standard’s private or social, so they can get on since 1986, it was purchased in new lease of life on page 16. the housing ladder.” are committed to investing in the future of Walthamstow, one of the most vibrant and emerging retail markets in London.

London 0207 932 8000 | Glasgow 0141 225 6600 | capreg.com

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Wlatham Forest ad_art 2017.indd 1 04/12/2017 11:58:24 We are Clarion Housing Group

Clarion Housing Group includes the largest housing association in the country, with more than 125,000 homes including 48,000 in London. The Group also includes a charitable foundation – Clarion Futures, and is one of the country’s leading developers. We are playing a key role in helping fix the broken housing market and over ten years aim to build 50,000 new homes, investing some £15 billion on meeting and delivering on this target. We will use our experience, scale and financial strength to complete these new homes and communities. We have a strong track record of working in partnership with both the private and public sector including the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

Below is a snapshot of recent schemes in the borough: Windmill Court, Chingford This award winning extra care scheme, developed in partnership with Waltham Forest Council, provides a mix of 44 one and two bedroom apartments that bring together both design and services for older residents.

Beaconsfield Road, Walthamstow Clarion Housing Group has extensive experience of developing A £3.8 million development to provide 30 homes for affordable new homes and communities, major regeneration projects and rent or shared ownership. The scheme, which replaces the former implementing innovative approaches to secure successful delivery. Francis House care home, has a mix of smaller apartments and two storey family homes. If you would like to speak to us about potential land opportunities, please contact: Headway Gardens, Walthamstow Richard White This award winning self-build scheme created ten new homes Director of Land & Planning on a former garage site owned by the Council and provided its [email protected] residents with a wide range of new skills. The scheme benefited from additional funding from the Greater London Authority. Or for joint ventures, package deals and S106s, please contact: Philip Browne Banbury Park, Walthamstow Director of New Business & Partnerships Currently in its final phase, on completion Banbury Park [email protected] will provide 350 mixed tenure new apartments and houses set in landscaped grounds, along with commercial units. The clarionhg.com scheme replaces disused warehouses, industrial works and an electronics factory, contributing to the regeneration of this part of Walthamstow. Building homes. Developing futures.

017 Invest Waltham Forest advert Clarion.indd All Pages 12/01/2018 08:59:30 We are Clarion Housing Group

017 Invest Waltham Forest advert Clarion.indd All Pages 12/01/2018 08:59:30

Culture-led regeneration

Left: The EMD Cinema, where The Beatles and The Rolling Stones once played, reopened its doors in 2016. Golden ticket Culture-led regeneration is a priority in the London Borough of Waltham Forest and part of this is once popular entertainment venues being restored and given new leases of life. Carly Cassano takes a look at how these projects are progressing 15 Entertainment venues ike a pheonix, some venues rise area was transformed into retail and again. They ruffle their age old co-working spaces for local creative wisdom through shiny new businesses and the council says it feathers to become something understands creativity needs space to Lbold. The idea behind reopening spread its wings. Miller adds: “We are evening venues in Waltham Forest determined to keep, grow and support is to peel back the layers of dust and young independent businesses, the ashes to reveal the William Morris creative sector and arts organisations wallpaper (or some such valuable in the borough.” quirk) and then add comfy seats and a solid platform for new voices. Young people in Waltham Forest are trying to connect with their Councillor Simon Miller, cabinet neighbours in new ways. Having member for economic growth and the space to do that can be the high streets, says: “With restorations key to their success. CentrE17, a and regeneration in general, Waltham Community Interest Company Forest Council is committed to (CICs recycle their profit), was respecting our foundations, while a performance group without a simultaneously enhancing them. permanent home until it moved into What was once a favourite pub Ross Wyld Hall near Central Parade. will also be utilised as a venue for comedy and music. What was once The 150-seat venue (originally a a barebones community space will community hall named for Frederick be expended, encouraging civic Ross Wyld, once Walthamstow’s engagement through the arts.” councillor, mayor, trade unionist and equal rights advocate) opened in Central Parade in Walthamstow won June 2017, with a mission to “create a the 2017 New London Architecture community of artists, dancers, theatre Mayor’s Prize for Good Growth. The practitioners, actors and sculptors”. Entrance to performances is venues and mixed-use residential frequently paid by donation proceeds buildings, as it is large-scale, and these are sent directly to local student housing, supermarkets charities such as the Eat or Heat and office spaces. food bank. This is why Waltham Forest’s vision In The Bakers Arms, the Hornbeam includes the promise of its very own Café hosts evening vegan pop-up phoenix, The Standard – a well-loved events (making gourmet vegan food at music and comedy club during its an affordable price), supper clubs and heyday, from 1986 through to the herbal remedy workshops. late 90s.

Charlie Boyd, Hornbeam’s head of During those years, then up-and- events, says: “We empower aspiring coming artists like American singer chefs and budding musicians to Suzi Quatro, British rockers Kula engage within our diverse community, Shaker and comedians Alan Davies support entrepreneurs and workshop and Harry Enfield performed there. facilitators, and educate the Quatro tells Invest Waltham Forest: community on important social and “I played this venue whenever I was environmental issues.” going on a tour as a warm-up gig. It was a shame when it closed.” For instance, Boyd explains, they work with local social enterprises This was in 2011, when it was bought such as OrganicLea, a worker’s co-op by the TFC supermarket chain. growing food for residents and venues London had lost a venue known for and HEET, an environmental and taking a chance on pioneering artists. fuel poverty-awareness organisation, For years, the council’s regeneration as a way to bring residents together team worked with the owners to

16 to share their vision for a healthier ensure the building is not only used borough. Daring projects take flight for a supermarket and flats, but, as Entertianment venues when people discover they have Miller says, as “a performance space common interests and a safe space to where the stars of tomorrow will get express themselves. their chance to shine”. The venue is across the street from the Victoria line This philosophy of inclusivity and at Blackhorse Road Station, which community outreach is being applied now runs for 24 hours at weekends to evening venues in Waltham (see page 20). Forest. Grassroots successes play a part in the council’s long-term Permission has been granted to vision: regeneration is as much about rebuild The Standard music venue in wellbeing, educational and arts the basement of the building, with programmes, as well as independent plans for work to take place over bakeries and cafes, shops, music the next few years, installing proper

Far left: Vintage furniture at Mirth, Marvel and Maud. Left: Suzi Quatro once played at The Standard in Walthamstow. soundproofing and construction for even the layout hasn’t changed much. Above: Mirth, Marvel the sake of Walthamstow residents. As Antic puts it, “expect a concert, and Maud prides itself 17 Currently, the Victorian-era brick theatre show or club night in an old on its cocktails. Entertainment venues building (which was always a pub of cinema (but without the seats)”. some kind) is vacant, but the exterior is painted bright candy coloured Plans to reopen the historic stripes, reminiscent of a bird of auditorium are under way. Within paradise ready to meet its mate. around five years, the EMD Cinema will host an audience of 1,000, Another exciting reopening is the bringing back large acts onto its EMD Cinema, formerly the Granada performance calendar, harking back Cinema, which was an entertainment to the days when The Beatles, The venue for 99 years before it became Rolling Stones, The Kinks and John a dedicated movie theatre in 1896. Coltrane played the stage. EMD is managed by Antic, which has already transformed the entrance into Miller says: “We want to make the Mirth, Marvel and Maud, an elegant most of our cultural assets and expand film screening room, performance our good quality evening economy, so space, cocktail bar and restaurant. that existing buildings such as EMD Cinema can be converted into a venue Like many Antic venues in London, for theatre, comedy and music. A Mirth, Marvel and Maud was once threadbare community hall in inspired by its surroundings. The Central Parade [Ross Wyld Hall] EMD Cinema is a Grade II Art Deco has been converted into a thriving beauty, evocative of industrial glamour community theatre, encouraging and the hard angles of modern city youth engagement and well-being life. Following Antic’s usual practice through the performing arts”. of refurbishing venues with vintage furniture and decor, Mirth, Marvel In the meantime, the Mirth, Marvel and Maud has a very cool, luxurious and Maud pop-up draws a diverse vibe. Painstaking efforts to preserve crowd; locals of every age and a the original interiors were made, and smattering of Londoners looking Clockwise: Performers at the Hornbeam Café; architectural plans for the Regal cinema; the entrance of Mirth, Marvel and Maud. 18 Entertianment venues + This area has a strong sense of community and creative entrepreneurship, and it loves film +

for a modernised version of their to reopen the iconic cinema. It will grandma’s house. The restaurant be a terrific boost for this area, which features distinctive pub food and has a strong sense of community and the venue’s live music, spoken word, entrepreneurship. And it loves film.” burlesque and comedy events all feel quite special too – inspirational and Creativity comes to life in many grounding in equal parts. ways: from the ashes of old buildings; from whispering echos of former Film fans are also enjoying life in the selves; from grassroots community borough. In addition to The Scene in organising; from the burning desire of Walthamstow – a 1,200-seat Empire people to express themselves and help cinema showing box office movies each other out. which opened in 2014 – there are plans to reopen the Regal Cinema in There are always challenges to Higham Hill, which hasn’t screened a overcome to bring about culture, film in 50 years. but through its communities and commitment to become the recipient The Regal will draw students and of the London mayor’s culture prize cinephiles interested in avant-garde. (see page 24), new places to enjoy Miller says: “We want to bring an music and film and the restoration of independent boutique cinema back to iconic venues are bringing a buzz back Higham Hill and we are determined to this east London borough. TELFORD HOMES ARE PROUD SPONSORS OF INVEST WALTHAM FOREST

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NEWHOMES@ TELFORDHOMES.LONDON www.telfordhomes.london Culture-led regeneration 20 Night-time economy Here comes the night-time With the benefits of improved transport connections by night and a wealth of restaurants and bars opening, the night-time economy in Waltham Forest is booming. Russell Hargrave reports

he night tube has been up “I was delighted to visit Waltham and running for 18 months, Forest on one of my ‘night surgeries’ transporting thousands this year. It was good to hear from of people in and out of locals, business owners and the TWaltham Forest each weekend. And council about their hopes for the as the number of visitors has grown, future of the area’s nightlife.” the night-time economy has been boosted in this corner of the capital. The night tube has boosted London’s economy by £171 million, Lamé says: “London is a great place for a night “This is making a real difference out, thanks to the brilliant bars, in places like Walthamstow. With theatres, restaurants and venues some amazing venues such as God’s dotted around every corner of the Own Junkyard, Mother’s Ruin and city,” says Amy Lamé, appointed as The Wild Card Brewery already London’s first night czar by mayor based in the area, there are fantastic Sadiq Khan in November 2016. opportunities ahead.” Wild Card is one of a number of microbreweries operating in the borough, as reported in the last issue of Invest Waltham Forest.

Such was the success of its first bar in Walthamstow, the business grew to a point of operating at full capacity and sought to expand its production and bar facilities to meet demand. “We get beer tourists,” Harries smiles, recounting his customer base – The brewery launched a “people from other countries coming crowdfunding campaign, with to see what the beer is like.” great success, going beyond the £250,000 target within a week, and And the opportunities offered by the a second production site was opened night tube? “We are already on it,” he on Lockwood Way in Blackhorse explains, highlighting a ‘Victoria line Road. The Ravenswood site will be party’ which took place in October refurbished and used to launch Wild 2017, bringing together the borough’s Card’s barrel-aged beer programme. artists with their counterparts at the other end of the tube line in Brixton. Sitting in the shadow of the nine-feet tall steel vats in which Wild Card’s The boom in late-night trade doesn’t ale is brewed, William Harris, one of just mean pubs and clubs, either. its directors, explains that his business Peter Hawking-Sach, an expert on has always depended on local interest night-time economies, is currently in good beer and a strong community. completing his PhD at University College London, and explains that

Local backing has been crucial, Waltham Forest “is dedicated to 21 explains Harris: “We wouldn’t have creating an evening and night-time Night-time economy achieved anything without local strategy, so that they are not just people supporting us. Without them, looking at late-night entertainment it wouldn’t have happened. They have but how to bridge the gap between driven the business forward. people finishing work and the revellers who stay out late at night.” “Considering the amount of people and the size of the high street and This has allowed venues such the general economic activity in the as CentrE17, a theatre next to borough, there was a very small night- Walthamstow Central, to establish life scene when we opened [in 2012],” itself as part of the borough’s cultural adds Harris. “But there is no doubt and economic life. “We are often the that this is getting stronger and better first stop in the evening out,” says all the time.” Max Peters, who runs CentrE17.

Clockwise: Wild Card brewery, Sodo Pizza, CentrE17 theatre and the Red Lion pub. Left: Night czar Amy Lamé on a visit to God’s Own Junkyard. + [Waltham Forest]’s night-time economy and culture will continue to go from strength to strength +

“One of our productions comes on Leyton’s nightlife has also received a at 7pm and finishes at 9.30pm or boost with new pubs and bars such as

22 10 o’clock. Leyton Technical in the old Leyton Town Hall building. Night-time economy “That then means people are excited and want to talk about what they Hawking-Sach is interested in the have seen, and then they move onto development of the Lea Bridge Road the new restaurant and the new bar, area too, which will host a new station which is open later.” and more homes in the near future. The area is “quite an important node Or as Ben Shelbourne, who runs for east London,” he says. “You’ve Sodo Pizza just down the road from got Clapton on one side and up to the theatre, puts it: “Next door to me the Baker’s Arms on the other; you’ve WITH A STRONG REGIONAL FOOTHOLD I’ve got a cocktail bar, next door to got the reservoir and marshes there, AND NATIONAL CAPABILITIES, WE’RE READY them they’ve got a Caribbean place you’ve got the Olympic Park to the WHEN, AND WHEREVER, YOU ARE. on the corner, next door to them they south. So there is lots of potential, have a cinema, next to that they have in terms of making sure it is better Benefiting from Glenny’s in-depth and unrivalled a Nando’s. The steady stream of small served and has better facilities.” knowledge of the North East London property market, restaurants and cocktail bars lend our clients operating in Waltham Forest can expect an themselves very well to each other.” The number of businesses in the exceptional service, whatever their requirements are. borough grew by 12% in 2016, Our full range of services are accessible through “It’s not necessarily competition, they according to the council’s latest our central support hub in Stratford and strategically- are our collective customers,” explains figures, bringing the total number located regional offices. James Chitty, general manager of to 11,000. And with proposals for the Red Lion pub in Leytonstone, more homes, a night-time economy is describing how small businesses have needed to meet the demands of new co-operated to develop restaurants residents. In the meantime, Lamé and pubs in the area. New businesses looks forward to visiting Waltham “get plugged in quite quickly,” agrees Forest again soon, confident that “its DISCOVER MORE ABOUT US AT WWW.GLENNY.CO.UK OUR TEAM:WORKING Joanna Sealy, founder of the Waltham night-time economy will continue to ESSEX | EAST LONDON | NORTH LONDON & HERTFORDSHIRE | SOUTH EAST LONDON & KENT Forest Business Network, who advises go from strength-to-strength”. When local companies on marketing and she does call by, she will no doubt find scaling-up. “We are quite connected.” the night-life is buzzing.

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30133_Glenny_Regional_MakingWalthamForest_AW.indd 1 28/09/2017 16:23 Culture-led regeneration Prize fighters As Waltham Forest bids to become London’s first Borough of Culture, Erika Sagner finds the borough’s programme of events and creative prowess putting it ahead of the pack 24 Festivals and events

Above: Dancers from altham Forest is a strong Walthamstow diary blogger, Bill Khyal Arts group entertain people at Walthamstow contender to become Foster, has lived in the area for more Garden Party, 2017. the first “London than 20 years and supports the bid. Borough of Culture”. W The borough’s strengths lie in “lots of In February 2018, two London new businesses, a strong community boroughs will be awarded the status – and venues that welcome open one for 2019 and another for 2020. theatre,” says Foster. “Events such as the Walthamstow Garden Party are Launched by Mayor of London fantastic for bringing people together Sadiq Khan in June 2017, the too,” he adds. scheme was inspired by the UK City and European Capital of Culture Walthamstow Garden Party in Lloyd initiatives. The winner will receive Park is a free two-day festival founded £1 million of arts funding. This would in 2014 and programmed by the allow Waltham Forest to build on its Barbican and Create London, which established cultural foundation. promotes art events and organisations: the event attracted almost 35,000 With its festivals and events attracting people in 2017. thousands of visitors every year and local arts scene continuing to Director of arts at The Barbican, flourish, Walthamstow in particular Louise Jeffreys, says: “The festival is is demonstrating how art-inspired central to the work The Barbican does regeneration can be a success. across east London. It’s a truly special occasion and we are passionate about ensuring the festival is a catalyst for new ideas, ambitious thinking and innovative collaborations.”

In 2017, some of the biggest name acts in the festival’s history performed, with bands including Tinariwen, from the Sahara, and reggae icons Toots promoted work in the borough, with and The Maytals on the bill. the event now a significant cultural landmark. In 2017, it took place over Create producer, Rachel Lincoln, has a 16-day summer period, engaging been involved since the first Garden more than 7,000 artists and residents. Party in the summer of 2014. She Open studios, schools and workshops says: “It really is a fantastic event, incorporated the STEAM (science, which shows the community has a technology, engineering, art and grass-roots culture.” maths) theme to acknowledge the creative discipline these subjects offer. Both organisations support Waltham Forest’s Borough of Culture bid, Artists with Waltham Forest which Lincoln believes would be connections, including musician “well-deserved”. She says: “I have Damon Albarn, photographer David seen local partners work together Bailey and artist Zarah Hussain, consistently in the borough and it is also support the borough’s bid, while lovely to see this develop. Winning the Walthamstow legacy of William the bid would give these groups Morris continues to inspire. greater exposure.” The gallery devoted to the famous

The E17 Arts Trail is another feather artist and thinker is a hugely popular 25 in the cap for the bid. Since 2005, venue for cultural and educational Festivals and events local artists have exhibited and events, while prints inspired by Morris’ love of nature were displayed

in Lloyd Park this summer. Top: Toots and the Maytals at Lloyd’s Park, 2017. Middle: the E17 Arts Trail Foster says winning £1 million for engages all ages. Bottom: locals turn out in arts funding would help support force for the Garden Party. continued cultural success, but for it to be successful, it will depend on the willingness of people to get involved.

Ultimately, this participation will benefit residents, says head of culture and heritage services for Waltham Forest Council, Lorna Lee. “It would also boost the economy and allow local businesses to thrive,” she adds.

The local authority’s bid promises to “create a radical manifesto for the capital’s cultural life, staging a world- class programme.”

Clearly, the borough prides itself on showing how art and culture can lie at the heart of a community. Ultimately, this is the driving force behind Waltham Forest’s bid as the council aims to show how its people are integral to culture-led regeneration. 26 Design in focus Built to last Waltham Forest is famed for its iconic buildings, renowned for high quality architecture – and the council has developed a charter to underline the importance of developing well-designed and maintained regeneration projects which sit in harmony with what already exists. Karen Jensen-Jones reports

t’s no coincidence that Waltham “The sheer quantum of development Above: Waltham Forest Council’s vision for the Forest has recently emerged from the council has seen in recent years, town hall includes opening up the campus so it can the shadows as a truly desirable as across much of London, has been be enjoyed by residents (see page 46). place to live. Waltham Forest incredible,” she says. “The principles ICouncil’s ambitious regeneration of the Design Charter are well plans across the borough are making established in the design world with a significant difference to the area and the 10 key, concise points stressing to the people who live there since the developers how strongly the council launch of its Design Charter in 2015. feels about good design and the effect it has on the community. With its 10 key urban design principles, including people-friendly “It’s really important to get it right streets and developments integrating in high-density developments such with their surroundings and local as those in Waltham Forest, as the heritage, Lucy Shomali, director of impact on residents both during, and regeneration and growth at Waltham after the work, is huge. The challenge Forest Council, explains the legacy of for us is embracing growth, but at the charter two years on. the same time we aim to protect and enhance the existing character of they look like traditional Victorian the borough through the quality of houses. But they are cleverly designed, the architecture and the materials with the ground floor door and your used and of course, vital transport neighbour’s door next to each other. connections. With the help of the charter and our policies and strong “With housing in such demand in political commitment, we are moving London and the outer boroughs, it in the right direction.” is clear to see how this style of housing works so well alongside This commitment to maintaining 21st century challenges,” she adds. and raising design standards in both buildings and spaces is inspired by The Grade II*-listed William Morris a desire to improve people’s lives Gallery is another local gem with wherever they live in the borough. a strong heritage and history. Re- Affordable housing, desirable retail opening in 2012, it offers transformed and restaurants, cinemas, galleries, gallery spaces, new education facilities open spaces, cycle lanes and effective and an orangery-inspired extension transport and traffic flow are just overlooking the beautiful Lloyd Park. some of the objectives. Awarded the prestigious title of The borough is already home to Museum of the Year in 2013, the a number of iconic architectural defining cultural landmark is a major buildings, which have undergone attraction for both locals and tourists extensive redevelopment to preserve in what was once the childhood home the essence of their past. of one of its most famous residents.

Ensuring old and new developments Vestry House in Walthamstow sit comfortably side-by-side is seen Village, once housing the parish

as a crucial part of improving the workhouse – and later a police station 27 environment. In close proximity to – is another iconic landmark brought Design in focus the town hall, good quality workers’ back to life. It now boasts a collection housing, built in the late 19th and of 80,000 historic photographs from early 20th century, makes up The across the borough. Warner Estate, properties which are a lasting and distinctive part of Both projects are enhancing Waltham Forest’s landscape. and inspiring the lives of the local community and contribute “It’s not so much about increasing the significantly to improving perceptions number of these homes but preserving of the area. and recognising their historic value,” explains Shomali. “These sought-after Looking ahead to future regeneration, properties are popular because they’re the campaign to redevelop Whipps flats or half houses and from the street Cross Hospital into a world-class

Right: The William Morris Gallery is Grade II*-listed and attracts thousands every month since it reopened its doors in 2012. Right: The Scene continues to win architectural plaudits. Below: Vestry House Museum shows the council’s willingness to re- use its former buildings. health and well-being campus is now and Shoreditch Housing Association firmly on the council’s agenda. and developer Hill Partnerships, faced the challenge of transforming the Councillor Clare Coghill, leader derelict 1960s office building at the of Waltham Forest Council, says: top of the high street into a vibrant “Whipps Cross has a proud place space that works on many levels. in our history and has served our community exceptionally for a “Good design is not one particular hundred years. We want it to continue thing and there’s not always a to deliver excellent care well into simple answer,” explains Laskin. the future and that is why we have “Every site will have its own unique launched our campaign.” challenges and good design is about understanding those challenges and Alongside heritage regeneration recognising the opportunities, as well projects are modern schemes as the constraints.

28 projecting 21st century values. “At The Scene, we worked hard Design in focus Situated in the town centre, The to find ways to maximise the Scene is testament to the success opportunities we had, while of the Design Charter, with the consulting with all the interested project winning many awards stakeholders such as the market including the London Planning traders, retailers and residents. Award 2017, two Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors awards in 2016, “It was – and always is – very Outstanding Contribution to the important to us that everyone who is Regeneration of Walthamstow Town likely to be affected by the changes Centre at the Waltham Forest Design has the opportunity to express their Awards, among others. opinion. I think consultation – however many times you need to Justin Laskin, associate partner at listen – is just good practice.” architect Pollard Thomas Edwards explains how his team, with Islington The ambitious £24 million scheme for a nine-screen cinema, retail outlets and restaurants and 121 homes aimed at being affordable, all in the busy town centre location, would inevitably have an impact on those living and working in and around the area.

“The improvements are good for everyone in the long-run, but we recognise that it’s quite a nuisance having disruptive building work on your doorstep and it’s important to be mindful of that,” stresses Laskin. “The mixture of uses in a busy town people and the users of the town centre location was the biggest centre. The bakery is thriving, the obstacle we faced. The solution we cafe is always busy and the shops and came up with was to build the cinema incubator spaces support independent underground, away from the main small businesses. frontage and to locate restaurants and shops on the ground floor to activate “The design is intended to be flexible the streets. to accommodate different users, while having its own character, and we think “Residential apartments and houses this has been successful. were placed above the retail with noise and access issues being a priority for “Opening up the long shop windows us to consider – both during and after which were previously obscured, the build. Everything was planned strong graphics on the interior, and and discussed with the community, window seating, animates the high who were kept informed of progress street in an important town centre and this has added to the success of location. The project has given a the scheme, because the community lovely old building a new life.” have always felt included. The existing building, which has “The Scene hasn’t been single- distinctive tiling and a corner clock handedly responsible for the tower, was originally designed and regeneration of the area, but it has delivered in 1958 by Waltham Forest’s certainly accelerated it, with the borough architect and has since been upgrade of the high street, the quality listed by Heritage England. of the shared public space and the easing of what was once a really busy Says Scott: “It’s interesting that a year and congested road.” since the project opened, the building

has recently been listed, having 29 A founding principle of making a previously been considered a potential Design in focus positive, imaginative and considered development site. This cements contribution to the built environment Central Parade as a positive asset to has been architect Gort Scott’s the town centre.” mantra throughout its refurbishment of the prominent and award-winning The significant mixed-use Central Parade. development around Blackhorse Lane Below: Central Parade has proved to be a successful example offers thoughtfully Director Fiona Scott says: “Central of how well-designed and considered designed incubator and studio space for nascent Parade has been embraced by local development can bring benefits. creative businesses. Teasdale says: “The parade of shops has really come to life now that they have regular customers and can see future potential. An old TV repair shop has recently changed use and converted to a restaurant – there’s a buzz in the air and that’s attractive.

Looking to the future, there are plans for a music venue (see page 15), a pub and more cafes and it is hoped this will encourage commuters to come home and socialise within their community.

Above and right: Central Steady progress also includes Parade has become a buzzing Walthamstow improved road junctions and cycle destination, featuring a lanes, as well as public art projects cafe and bakery. aimed at brightening up the area.

Also benefiting are Lea Bridge and Wood Street, as Shomali explains: “There are many new developments coming forward and we are identifying sites that are currently mixed-use or industrial which we can Rigorous design reviews have been make better use of, while retaining the put in place by the council for mixed- businesses that are already there.

30 use schemes. This attention to detail, coupled with the close proximity of Picking up on the reopening of Lea Design in focus the Walthamstow Wetlands, has seen Bridge, which was closed for many an increase in young professionals years, Shomali says “it has proved to moving to the area. be a catalyst for regeneration in the area”. Consent was granted for Will Teasdale, the council’s head residential development which is of strategic development, notes the currently under construction. knock-on effect this has had. She adds: “Wood Street is another “The shopping parade and growth area, where good overground restaurants, which were struggling, are transport connections have made now busy, as more people move to the a difference along with the well- location and socialise there,” he says. established shopping centre.”

“The area was very run-down and “Accessibility is really important and environmentally poor and the key to encouraging people to live in suggestion of improvement had been the area and this inevitably leads to talked about for many years. further investment and growth.”

“Now it’s happened and the change Two years on from the has been initiated, it’s getting easier implementation of the Waltham to encourage people to want to live Forest Council Design Charter, it there because they can see the benefits is clear developers are taking note, for themselves,” Teasdale concludes. creating well-designed development projects, positively regenerating the Housing appealing to students area and improving the quality of and those in their 20s and 30s is people’s lives. beginning to transform the way these demographics perceive an area they It is proving to be a great and may well have once overlooked. ongoing success. WELCOME HOME

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Equal visions Interviews Waltham Forest’s council leader Clare Coghill discusses her first months in the leadership role and the importance of housing, while Richard Upton, deputy chief executive of U+I, a developer known for its cultural-led developments, draws on how the private sector can prioritise local needs. With questions from Noella Pio Kivlehan

CLARE COGHILL, LEADER, WALTHAM FOREST COUNCIL Above: The former Webbs Industrial Estate will become home to London’s What have the first months in the “first fully affordable” housing scheme. leadership role been like? Left: Councillor Clare Coghill is the first female to be elected as Waltham Since officially becoming council Forest’s council leader. leader in May 2017, the experience has been amazing, particularly as the borough is in a great place. But we face lots of challenges. One is ensuring we have sufficient affordable – and social – housing in the borough.

I’ve been delighted that in my first six months, Sadiq Khan, mayor of London, announced that Catalyst and Swan will be developing a site on the former Webbs Industrial Estate, where the 330 homes will be all about pushing up standards for our genuinely affordable. residents. For those living in sub- standard accommodation, we are There are statistics that show we obliging landlords to make sure are one of highest performing repairs are done. boroughs in London when it comes to affordability. But we don’t want to rest Over the next six months, we want on our laurels – we have to continue to make sure we are pushing hard, to fight for affordable housing and for alongside the mayor, for really good more social housing. It’s important quality affordable and social housing, that people aren’t priced out of their and we are asking central government homes and communities. for support around school places and healthcare facilities. Residents having a decent roof over their heads is one of the key Another objective is the Love Whipps priorities of my leadership. Whether Cross campaign. Having our hospital it’s affordable, social, or rented rebuilt will be a huge priority for me accommodation, we want to do and the council. Health places and everything we can to make sure hospitals are a key part of how we residents are safe, that their families support housing developments in a are safe and they can enjoy a good way that means residents don’t miss quality of life. out when we get new developments. And they also get better facilities. A key standout moment so far in my leadership was the opening of What are the pro and cons Walthamstow Wetlands (see page 7) of regeneration? in October. At over 500 acres [more than 200ha] of stunning green space, The pros are new stock, buildings, and

34 it is a phenomenal achievement. public realm – the cons are disruption We’ve had thousands of visitors during building, and deciding what to Interviews already and the response of residents keep and what to lose. has been incredible: having large areas of green open space for them to London has to grow to meet the enjoy is one of the ways we can make demands for housing. We want sure new housing developments are the people who want to live in our positively received by local people borough and to stay here to have the Below: Walthamstow Wetlands opened to much who don’t want to feel crowded out. opportunity to do so, but we will need fanfare in October 2017 more housing. It’s about how we make and features more than 200ha of open space. What are your objectives? sure people have the opportunity to work, and have flexible work spaces For housing, the landlord licensing like the project we delivered at scheme has been hugely successful Central Parade (see page 30). and phenomenally important. It’s We want people to enjoy themselves, and to have a great quality of life, whether that’s in our parks – Ridgeway or Langthorne Parks – or the Wetlands, or in leisure centres such as the Feel Good Centre.

Funding for our vision comes from money we have spent, or secured in partnership with others to support us.

As a result, it’s crucial to work with people who have a shared vision, who don’t cut corners and who want to provide really good housing and public realm, and who want to Left: The Feel Good Leisure Centre has received £26 million of investment and features a 25-metre competition pool.

+ In Waltham Forest, our communities remain very diverse and we have a great sense of community spirit +

support us in making sure we get When considering regeneration, 35 sufficient school and GP places. what does the council wish to avoid? Interviews

It’s fair to say we are not finding it We want to avoid bad design. We difficult to get partners: they are very want active frontages. eager to invest in Waltham Forest. The quality of developers who want Yes, there’s been mistakes made in the to work in the borough has risen over past: I don’t think there is a London the last four years. borough that doesn’t have instances of developments it isn’t 100% pleased Gentrification: can there be an upside with. It’s about how we make the to this sort of change and if so, what most of the opportunities. are the benefits? RICHARD UPTON, DEPUTY CHIEF Gentrification is a massive challenge EXECUTIVE, U+I for London. It’s determined by people who own their own homes deciding How can private sector objectives be to sell to the highest bidder. That’s tailored to prioritise development to the private housing model that exists benefit communities? in this country. The question is: how do we enable people to become The private sector needs to excite homeowners or live in good quality, people with the prospect of change private rented accommodation? This and hope, rather than change and is about our landlord licensing scheme hate. Property developers need to and seeking to work with developers realise that their reputation will who have a social conscience. change for the better if the places we create do too. At U+I, when In Waltham Forest, our communities we are developing a scheme, we remain very diverse and we have a are constantly looking at the local great sense of community spirit and community and asking ourselves: of people coming together. what’s missing? How might we Right: Richard Upton, barriers. It can enrich lives, encourage deputy chief executive at developer U+I. Below: greater connections across society and its involvement with Blackhorse Workshop is liberate enterprise. supporting the borough’s producers with access to free space. At U+I we recognise that we cannot develop in isolation. Our priority is to connect with people and businesses whose lives we affect, because what we do tends to last. We actively look to involve local people and communities in creating places and spaces. It’s not easy and we don’t provide it? How might we cultivate always get it right but this quest to something that is already in the soil? connect and involve is an essential part of U+I. Taking time to explore and understand a place’s history and When development is done properly, community can provide inspiration it can be a real force for positive for the future potential and help change, delivering social and us harness the special and unique economic benefit at community level. qualities of a particular area. Development that takes this into How will the work the company is account tends to be more productive doing in Waltham Forest, such as as it is unlocking the potential that is with Blackhorse Workshop, inspire already there, enhancing connections the positive change it is aiming for? between past, present and future. U+I is working with Blackhorse It takes as much effort, sweat and Workshop to celebrate maker

36 tears to develop badly as to develop culture in the Blackhorse Road area. well and the results can hang around Our partnership highlights our Interviews for decades. Developers must be more understanding of the importance of imaginative and intelligent in the way creative industries to local people and we address some of the challenges of allowed us to open up a site to the our age in creating places where we local community at a time when it live, work and play. If we don’t we could be standing derelict. lose our licence to operate and the trust of our communities. From July to December 2017, Sideshow brought life to the What are the pros and cons of Equipment Works site and provided regeneration and how is U+I a temporary home for local makers, challenging perceptions that who have been given free space to developers prioritise profit margins showcase their work. In the long term, over the needs of communities? there will be beautifully designed commercial workshops, as part of the To put it simply, bad development comprehensive regeneration plans. raises barriers between people. Good development demolishes those Elements of Sideshow and Equipment Work architecture acknowledge the site’s history and heritage, as the original home of the Associated Equipment Company Factory, whose prototypes inspired the design of London’s iconic Routemaster bus.

Editor’s note: this interview was conducted before U+I agreed to sell Equipment Works to Telford Homes in December 2017 (see page 8). BUILT FOR CITY LIVING

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Partnership working is the cornerstone of our business and we are proud to be working with Waltham Forest Council to achieve significant regeneration in the Borough.

Together we are working on an ambitious programme that will see Council- owned garage sites being transformed into over 300 new homes by the year 2020.

Councillor Khevyn Limbajee, Cabinet Member for Housing said: “I’m pleased to be working in partnership with ENGIE on this project, and look forward to seeing these sites being transformed into high quality homes for local people.”

Dan Germann, Regional Managing Director at ENGIE’s London and Southern Developments also commented, “We aim to leave a lasting legacy in Waltham Forest through both housing delivery, and various community engagement and impact initiatives.” 39 Housing

Above: Taylor Wimpey’s Eclipse development at Blackhorse Road is Making a move attracting first-time buyers. The housing crisis in London remains acute and councils across the capital are having to find increasingly inventive ways to address it. Jane Thynne reports on Waltham Forest’s historic approach and the strategy the council is adopting to tackle current problems

ver the coming years, Waltham Forest is proud of its housing in Waltham Forest tradition of an ethical approach to is set to be transformed. housing, which dates back to the From Chingford to late 19th century and the creation of OLeyton, the council is committed to the Warner Estate. Built by Thomas providing thousands of new homes Courtenay Warner, the project for its burgeoning community. featured spacious one and two- As Councillor Khevyn Limabjee, bedroom properties across 121.4ha portfolio lead member for housing, in Walthamstow, complete with affirms: “One key priority is ensuring communal gardens and “your own a decent roof over everyone’s head.” front door”. They were built for and rented by the a new health hub and a range of high working classes at truly affordable quality evening entertainment venues, rents, providing “a decent roof ” over while maintaining the area’s heritage. the heads of generations of families for more than a century. “This is very much part of the strategy,” says Welsh, who adds: While many are now in the hands “We are constantly looking to of private owners, artists Katherine link up developments with social Green and Lucy Harrison are keeping infrastructure – such as schools, the Warner spirit alive with their nurseries and so on – as well as award-winning heritage initiative; within workspaces.” WE: The Ex-Warner Estate in Waltham Forest – an exhibition There is no getting away from the of photographs and oral histories reality of the figures, however, and celebrating residents past and present. while Waltham Forest claims to have delivered more affordable housing “The estate was unique,” says than any other London borough since Harrison. “The properties were 2014, as of July 2017, there were still designed to be affordable so people 8,751 households on the council’s could invest in their surroundings. housing register. It was about a shared experience: something to take pride in.” But changes are on the way. Work has already started at the Marlowe Road That sense of community estate, the first project in the council’s responsibility and a more holistic estate regeneration programme, which approach to regeneration is at the will see 430 homes built for social forefront of the borough’s housing rent and private sale in partnership policy. It can already be witnessed with Countryside. The formation of

40 in the St James and South Grove Waltham Forest Developments – a sections of Walthamstow town centre, company backed by £100 million of Housing where the council’s Supplementary council investment with a pipeline Planning Document has outlined not to deliver 500 new homes that will only new housing – a development “acquire or build on council-owned of 473 homes by Hadley Property sites”, to speed up the construction Below: The history of the Warner Estate in Group has been given the go-ahead process, is also in motion. Walthamstow is (along with flexible communal space celebrated and is seen to reflect the area’s strong and walking and cycling routes) – but Waltham Forest Developments is community spirit. also keen to create the “right sort” of housing tenures.

According to the latest census, the borough is home to around 271,200 people and rising, with a median age of 34 years (below the UK average of 40 years). This prompted the council to ask younger residents about the kind of housing they wanted.

“Accommodation needs are changing,” says Welsh. “Things such as shared housing, or with communal living, and location are key. But it’s clear that just building the homes we have always built is not of use.”

Some developers have already identified Walthamstow’s Blackhorse Lane as the borough hotspot for young buyers and renters. Left: Fizzy Living’s PRS scheme on Blackhorse Lane appeals to young professionals – the flats are pet friendly.

+ We have everything – culture, retail and great 41 transport links. It’s a great place to live Housing + Fresh Student Living recently Next door, the Eclipse scheme is opened Mannequin House, which part of Taylor Wimpey’s 500-unit offers studios and shared living Blackhorse Lane build. It includes a opportunities from £151 a week mix of one, two and three-bedroom and quick transport links to various contemporary apartments ranges from university campuses. £335,000 to £525,000 in price, and has the added incentive of a ‘help- One enterprise that has its eyes on to-buy’ offer. It also cites “excellent the young professional end of the transport links” as the reason for its market is Fizzy Living. The PRS success. Plots are being snapped landlord has recently completed phase up by first-time buyers from the one of its 111-apartment Blackhorse local area. Lane development. Fully serviced homes start at £1,450 per month and Traditionally one of the mainstays include free wifi, co-working spaces of affordable housing in the area, and a weekly tenants-with-pets social, Peabody has also targeted the dubbed ‘Yappy Hour’. Blackhorse Lane sector, providing mixed-use housing at Headbourne Managing director Harry Downes House, Clayton Court and Unity says: “We appeal to ‘generation rent’ if Works to create more than 100 new you like – people who want affordable, homes. And for 2018, along with quality accommodation with good developer Hill, it will complete on its transport links. Walthamstow is great £350 million scheme in Lea Bridge because it’s two minutes away from a Road, Leyton, which will see the station and near excellent shopping construction of 300 properties – 62 of facilities and restaurants.” which will be affordable. Like other London boroughs, Waltham Forest is undergoing huge transformation. “It’s very exciting,” says Welsh. “We have everything – culture, retail and great transport links. It’s a great place to live and we want to make it even better.”

Residents’ views:

Kieran Smith, 30, St James Street “We have lived in different London boroughs with increasingly unaffordable rents, then we found a flat near St James Street that was Above: Peabody’s Unity Works project. Below: Flats Welsh says Waltham Forest ideal. We’re now looking to buy at Taylor Wimpey’s Eclipse scheme will overlook a Developments is seeking sites here. I love Walthamstow because landscaped courtyard. borough-wide, but it makes sense of the open spaces, cinema, food to start where suitable council land and transport links. There is a real exists. One such place is Chingford. community spirit too.” “There is a lot of council land there, so we have to make the most of it, John Greatwood, 47, Walthamstow [while] making sure our communities “I opted for Walthamstow because of are not left behind,” he says. its fabulous transport links. I travel a lot for work, and the transport links Welsh is clear that all opportunities are great. There has been a lot of will be explored when it comes to money invested in the area. I creating new homes. arrived here thinking I would give it

42 a year, but now I can’t imagine living “We have mapped out all our anywhere else.” Housing redundant space,” he says. “It may not benefit from lots of amenities, “Bob”, Keith Road, taken from the but they could provide developmental Ex-Warner Project oral history potential on a hidden homes basis.” “Right up until 1962, I can never ever remember having a key for the door... The company is also looking at a I used to come home from school, put range of build solutions, including my hand through the letter box, pull off-site assembly of modular the string and the door used to open. constructions enabling developers to Security of a night was: “anybody provide homes very quickly. This, taken the string off?” you know, off according to Welsh, is ideal for sites the door, it used to pull the latch. deemed to be of ‘meanwhile use’ for a That was the security, taking the period up to 10 years. string off…” THE SCENE IN WALTHAMSTOW

Winner: National Housing Winner: New London Winner: London Planning Awards 2015 – Overall Winner Architecture Awards 2016, Awards 2017, Best Town and Best Regeneration Scheme Best Mixed Use Scheme Centre Project

Winner: What House Awards Winner: Housing Design Awards Winner: Waltham Forest 2015, Best Development, Best 2016, Best Sustainable High Design Awards 2017, Outstanding Brownfield Scheme Density Design Contribution to the Regeneration of Walthamstow Town Centre

Islington and Shoreditch Housing Association (ISHA) leads the North River Alliance, a consortium of nine community-based housing associations. Together, we have built nearly 600 affordable homes in London Borough of Waltham Forest since 2010, investing £112m and attracting grant of £45m. One of our flagship schemes has been the development of The Scene in Walthamstow, which has won several major national awards. However its main achievement has been the transformation of the centre of Walthamstow as a place to live and be entertained. By working together, the North River Alliance develop housing solutions for our local communities.

For more information, please contact: Colin Archer, Director of Development and New Business, 0207 704 7301, [email protected] 12,000 HOMES BY 2020

MINUTES FROM THE CITY

NEW CREATIVE ENTERPRISE ZONE TO ‘KEEP, SEED AND GROW’ BUSINESSES

The Creative Choice INVEST

Waltham Forest | east London www.walthamforest.gov.uk/invest

WFC150534_Regeneration_Growth_Invest_Poster_AW.indd 1 26/02/2016 16:38

12,000 HOMES Stansted Airport WALTHAM 32 mins by road BY 2020 FOREST Map

CHINGFORD Chingford DEVELOPMENT KEY Highlighting the major MINUTES regeneration schemes and FROM areas in Waltham Forest, with a focus on: THE CITY 1. Town Hall Vision 2. Blackhorse station hub sites 3. Stonelea and Thornebury 4. Mandora Site 5. Webbs site 6. Blackhorse Road

Additional projects: NEW CREATIVE 7. The Mall HIGHAMS 8. Lea Bridge sites 1, 2 and 3 PARK ENTERPRISE ZONE Highams Park 9. Coronation Square TO ‘KEEP, SEED AND 10. Lea Bridge & Leyton vision A406 (area marked as ) GROW’ BUSINESSES A406 45 A406 Projects

Major road links 6 M11, A12, M25 5 6 mins WOOD 4 1 STREET BLACKHORSE 2 LANE The Creative Choice Stansted Airport WALTHAMSTOW 33 mins by train Blackhorse CENTRAL Wood Street Road Walthamstow Central Central London Toenham 7 11 mins by tube Hale St James Street WALTHAMSTOW Wetlands Walthamstow Queens Road ST JAMES’ STREET

LEYTONSTONE INVEST A12 LEA BRIDGE Leyton Midland Road ROAD Leytonstone 8 Central London Lea Bridge 15 mins by train 10 LEYTON / Leytonstone High Road NORTHERN OLYMPIC PARK Railway line 9 AREA Roads

Walthamstow Leyton Wetlands A12 3 Housing zones Canary Wharf Eton Manor Waltham Forest | east London 15 mins by road www.walthamforest.gov.uk/invest Olympic London City Airport Park 19 mins by road

WFC150534_Regeneration_Growth_Invest_Poster_AW.indd 1 26/02/2016 16:38 WALTHAM FOREST Projects

TOWN HALL VISION

Waltham Forest Council is To the east of the town hall there consulting residents on plans to would be office space built to redevelop the 1930s town hall on house council staff and other local Forest Road in Walthamstow, to public sector organisations. create a community hub. The proposals are expected to be Proposals include space for retail cost-neutral and save up to and cafes, pedestrianising the area £1 million of taxpayers’ money each around the fountain and creating a year by enabling better use of new park with a centenary garden, publicly owned land and buildings as well as restoring a First World in the borough under the One War memorial. Public Estate initiative.

Homes would be built on the car If the plan proceeds, the council park to the west, with at least would close nine older offices and 35% being allocated as affordable. move staff into the town hall site. stonelea and thornebury

This housing development in Council leader Clare Coghill Leytonstone will be marketed as pledged support for the scheme, 100% affordable housing, following when visiting in August 2017. negotiations by the council, helping meet the borough’s strong demand She said: “One of my priorities for homes available for rent and as the leader of the council is to shared ownership at prices local make sure that everyone has a roof people can afford. over their heads and providing affordable, high-quality housing is There will be 79 homes built by the vital to achieving this. ENGIE group (formerly Keepmoat Regeneration) on the former NHS “Working with the Peabody Group Stonelea and Thornebury sites off is a pleasure. We welcome socially Blackhorse road Union Close for social landlord aware developers to Waltham car park Peabody Group. Forest, which can help us to build the infrastructure that creates Transport for London (TfL) has Peabody originally intended to have thriving, happy communities.” chosen a joint venture of Barratt only 30% of the site as affordable 47 Homes London and housing homes, but the council was able to The sites were originally purchased Projects association L&Q as its preferred secure an agreement that 36 would by housing association Family bidder to develop a 0.72-ha site be available for social rent and Mosaic in 2014, which secured opposite Blackhorse Road station. 43 for shared ownership. detailed planning permission for the homes in 2016, before the There are 350 homes planned Dick Mortimer, Peabody’s executive organisation merged with Peabody for the site, of which 50% are director of development, said: “We in July 2017. earmarked as affordable. Subject recognise a significant demand for to planning permission, work high quality, family sized homes in The homes have been designed by could start in 2019. the borough and more than one- Alan Camp Architects, which used third of this scheme will be units a simple material palette of two The site is surrounded by mixed- with three or more bedrooms.” colours of brick. use developments, which are creating a neighbourhood of around 1,700 homes, with retail, commercial and leisure spaces.

Matt Calladine, regional land and development director at Barratt London, said: “The TfL car park is an important development site in the context of the wider regeneration of this area.”

The site forms part of the Blackhorse Lane and Northern Olympic Park Housing Zone. TfL has established that 90% of users of the existing car park arrive from locations closer to another station. Mandora site 48

Projects Homes for sale and rent and In September, Fresh Student Living Designs by DLA Architects new student accommodation at opened Mannequin House, which reference the site’s industrial Blackhorse Lane are among the has 485 cluster bedrooms in shared heritage and complement the latest tangible signs of progress in apartments and 42 studios. scale and features of neighbouring and around the 2.75-ha Mandora site regeneration proposals. opposite Blackhorse Road station. Ian Scott, of Curlew Student Trust, which now owns Mannequin The name Equipment Works comes This is one of the borough’s largest House, said the site was suited to from the site’s former use by the regeneration areas, where long- student accommodation given “the Associated Equipment Company, derelict industrial land will see new excellent transport links, with central which made London buses there homes and small business spaces, London and many key universities until 1927. together with a park and public accessible in under 15 minutes, and square, effectively creating a new the opportunity to be part of a Vacant possession is expected suburb just a few minutes’ walk from regeneration area”. by April 2018 and Telford Homes the underground station. intends to begin work in autumn In December 2017, Telford Homes 2018 with completion anticipated in The site lies between Blackhorse aquired the 1.21-ha Equipment late 2021. Lane and the High Maynard Works scheme from developer U+I Reservoir – part of the Walthamstow and Parkdale Investments, with the Jon Di-Stefano, chief executive of Wetlands – and the town centre. contract exchange said to be agreed Telford Homes, called Equipment for £33.9 million. Works an “excellent build-to-rent Developer Macdonald Egan was opportunity”. granted planning permission in 2014, Detailed planning permission for a and opened the Gnome House £130 million mixed-use scheme is in “This acquisition not only adds building in 2015 for community place. The 1.21-ha site will become a to our substantial development space, B1 office accommodation landscaped environment featuring pipeline, but should further enhance and eight apartments on two floors 337 homes and a new public square, our reputation as a significant added on top of the original building. as well as 1,750sq m of commercial developer of build-to-rent housing in It also features a printmaking facility. spaces for businesses. London,” he added. WEBBS SITE

This 1.67-ha former industrial site at Blackhorse Lane has been acquired by the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, as part of the Waltham Forest Housing Zone for residential redevelopment and is being called London’s first 100% affordable housing scheme.

Outline planning permission also includes 3,000sq m of workshop space and a new park.

Khan has approved spending of £362,700 for the demolition and clearance of all existing buildings.

Housing associations Swan and 49 Catalyst have been awarded Housebuilder Taylor Wimpey has Phase two of Eclipse will comprise Projects preferred bidder status by the meanwhile launched the first of its 150 new homes, including around Greater London Authority for the one, two and three-bedroom homes 50 affordable properties to be site, on which they intend to build at Eclipse on the Mandora site. managed by One Housing Group. 330 homes for affordable shared ownership homes. It says the site is an “increasingly A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson popular choice among homebuyers said: “We are delighted with the looking for their perfect place in a response we have received to trendy part of the city”. the new homes at our Eclipse development, which was subject to The new properties are priced from a very successful launch event at £335,000, which the developer said our state-of-the-art sales centre. are to a high specification. “Works are progressing well on-site It will include 500 homes. Private and the first homes are expected to rental landlord Fizzy Living agreed be occupied at the end of 2018.” earlier this year to buy 111 of them under a forward funding structure. Phase one of the Fizzy Living homes was completed in December, while Properties will be aimed at a second phase is in progress to professional people aged in their provide 170 homes. The final phase late 20s and 30s and will include an is due to start in 2018. interactive hub where tenants can socialise and work. Fizzy Living managing director Harry Downes said: “The opportunity Taylor Wimpey will create a link with delivers all Fizzy’s purchase the next door Fizzy apartments and perametres and its location is the Walthamstow Wetlands, which perfect for fast access to the City are just down the road. and the West End.” A REPUTATION FOR EXCELLENCE

blackhorse road As a not-for-profit organisation, Developer Legal & General has Dan Batterton, build-to-rent fund private renting could look like for Sanctuary believes in making a started work on Blackhorse Mills, a manager at LGIM Real Assets, said: future development projects. build-to-rent scheme of 440 homes “Blackhorse Lane is a hugely vibrant lasting contribution. We apply our near Blackhorse Road Underground and rapidly growing area of London. Also in the Blackhorse Road area, ethical values to our diverse building and Overground station. It needs new quality housing. Watkin Jones Group has gained programmes - whether it’s housing planning permission to build It is being built by Galliford Try “Waltham Forest Council has been 353 homes for students in a series for first time buyers or care schemes Partnerships in a £120 million a very supportive, forward-thinking of blocks ranging from nine to for older people. contract and is expected to be partner and it is only through this 17 storeys, together with 900sq m complete in late 2019. joined up, progressive approach of commercial space. that we are able to make such a The site overlooks the recently large investment into the Blackhorse The scheme in Forest Road would opened Walthamstow Wetlands and Lane community, supporting replace some former commercial will provide a mix of studios and residents and businesses.” buildings and together are the one, two and three-bedroom homes. second large developments of Over the next ten years we plan on It will also include 1,858sq m of He said Blackhorse Mills would homes and student accommodation building more than 24,000 much- commercial accommodation. become an exemplar of what in the area.

50 needed homes. If you have potential

Projects development opportunities in your area, or need our help in delivering your construction projects, please contact us.

01905 335154 [email protected] www.sanctuary-group.co.uk

Sanctuary Group is a trading name of Sanctuary Housing Association, an exempt charity A REPUTATION FOR EXCELLENCE

As a not-for-profit organisation, Sanctuary believes in making a lasting contribution. We apply our ethical values to our diverse building programmes - whether it’s housing for first time buyers or care schemes for older people.

Over the next ten years we plan on building more than 24,000 much- needed homes. If you have potential development opportunities in your area, or need our help in delivering your construction projects, please contact us.

01905 335154 [email protected] www.sanctuary-group.co.uk

Sanctuary Group is a trading name of Sanctuary Housing Association, an exempt charity Above: Indycube seeks to unionise self-employed people – such as graphic designers – to provide Ways to connect workers’ rights support. With support from a local MP and the council, co-operative models of working are helping with problems in Waltham Forest, from risks attached to self-employment to the cost of renting workshops and food production. Lucy Clarke reports

elf-employed people in The Labour MP for Walthamstow, Waltham Forest are finding Stella Creasy, hopes projects run by new ways to work in a crucial organisations like these will act as a step forward for entrepreneurs gateway for promoting trade union Sand business-minded residents. membership among the 16.5% of her north-east London constituency who Collaborative organisations such work for themselves. as the co-operative working space Indycube and the Blackhorse Indycube, in partnership with the Workshop public facility are intent on community trade union, is helping to encouraging freelance success across support Walthamstow’s growing self- the borough. employed community. Creasy tells Invest Waltham Forest: “While it’s important for people “With nearly one in seven residents in the workspace to have self- in Walthamstow now self employed, employment as a commonality,” he supporting their entrepreneurship will adds, “they don’t all have to be selling be critical in helping to support our or making the same thing. local community.” “We have people through our doors Indycube has taken over the Co- who are operating a business on Operative bank branch on Hoe Street, a global scale, but we also have which serves as a base for its members small lifestyle businesses. Each is as and helps develop the business important to us as the other.” support on offer to residents. Indycube has a 50/50 gender split, This will include low-cost work something Hooper believes is space, networking events and business different to other workspaces, which, support activities. he says, “tend to be full of testosterone and boys with their toys”. Indycube’s founder Mark Hooper says the objective is straightforward: “We have been around for eight years to nurture opportunities for self- and approximately 2,000 people have employed people by giving them a benefited from our services,” he adds. unionised community facility. Another boost to self-employed “We want people to stay closer to people is for those who suffer from home so they can pick up their unstable income brought about by children from school and travel less,” late payments: Indycube offers help to Hooper says. overcome this problem for a small fee.

“We are also sector-agnostic, which Hooper points out small businesses 53 essentially means we don’t care who and freelancers are £26 billion out of New ways to work to New ways comes in. The result is lots of different pocket because of late payments. people, from different backgrounds and with different skills, come Creasy, who won the new union the together to share their expertise.” backing of the co-operative party, calls Indycube “revolutionary in putting the Hooper believes innovation is rare in means of production in the hands of places where everyone is the same. the workers”. + Lots of different people – from different backgrounds and with different skills – come together +

Left: Blackhorse Workshop sees a community of makers come together to ply their trade or improve their skills. Right: OrganicLea encourages people to come together in the Waltham Forest community to grow their own produce. What are the major benefits? “Anyone Courses in a range of activities – from can join and take advantage of tiling to woodturning – also prove services to get invoices paid on-time popular to those wanting to pursue and access legal advice,” says Creasy. hobbies or improve their skills.

“These are facilities none of Other alternative initiatives in the them could afford to commission borough include OrganicLea, a individually, but collective purchasing community food project based in the means they will all save time and Lea Valley. money together. With a workers’ co-op at its core, the

54 “The union is also looking at how – egalitarian organisation produces and when things get tough and business is distributes food and plants locally, New ways to work to New ways inconsistent – it can offer a surety as inspiring and supporting others to do well as parental leave.” the same.

Creasy tells Invest Waltham Forest “We have two acres [0.8ha] of land on she is invested in Indycube’s future: the edge of Epping Forest where we “I’m very excited by the opportunities grow fruit and vegetables,” Sunniva Indycube and the union for the Taylor from OrganicLea explains. self-employed will give local people and look forward to helping develop “We do it with the co-op model this resource and its facilities in the at the heart but also with a huge months ahead.” amount of volunteers who benefit in different ways, such as participating in Self-employed people also benefit purposeful and meaningful activity in from Blackhorse Workshop on a green space. Sutherland Road, a public space dedicated to making and mending, The volunteers are people who are with open access to a fully equipped interested in growing fresh produce, wood and metal workshop. while some have been referred because of mental health issues such as social Founded by architecture and design anxiety and depression. practice, Assemble, the space provides opportunities to develop startup Taylor says: “We learn through doing businesses, with the support of and encourage everyone to develop industry expertise and a community their skills, work on their confidence of makers. and take those skills to other places.”

It is available to everyone – from It is clear Waltham Forest’s workforce professional carpenters to those who are benefiting from new ways to work just want to flex their creative muscle. in a myriad of ways. partners Supporting the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

Tim Metcalfe Communications manager and associate partner [email protected]

[email protected]

Josie Brewer Business development manager [email protected]

+ For more information about these companies, please visit investwalthamforest.com/partners + Wheel of fortune Those pursuing the ambition to set up their own business are finding Walthamstow’s Central Parade gives them the platform they need. Ruth McKee visits a bicycle designer at the facility who was given the support to put him on the right path 56 Retail and innovation

althamstow, once Today Bread, a bakery run by ‘baking Above: Diego’s Lombardi’s associated with king’ Alex Bettler, who started his bespoke bicycle business, Racer Rosa, is thriving at traditional east London career batch-baking bread in his tiny Central Parade. markets, is now one flat in Clapton, Hackney three years Wof the most fashionable parts of ago, is one example. Another is Diego north-east London, renowned for the Lombardi’s bespoke bicycle company, ingenuity and creativity of local artists Racer Rosa. and entrepreneurs who have set about establishing businesses in the town. Lombardi has been passionate about cycling since he was a child and after Central Parade in Hoe Street, run by a stint as a graphic designer, set up his social enterprise company Meanwhile business in 2010. “I managed to make Space was created from a formerly my hobby my job,” he says. empty, dormant space and is home to a range of varied enterprises. At his shop in the parade, the designer builds custom-made, Thanks to reduced rent and support handcrafted, made-to-measure from the council, independent bikes for his growing customer base. businesses are given the chance to The flexible lease and support from establish themselves and grow in a Meanwhile Space means Racer Rosa’s supportive environment. business has taken off. Lombardi says: “It was a chance for from the shop as a once-in-a-lifetime us to have a retail space on the high purchase, having a space where street. We are a start-up and our lease Lombardi can spend time getting was flexible, which was ideal. to know his customers is important to him. If his clients are prepared to “That, combined with the support make an investment, Lombardi wants of lower rent than other places meant to give them something back. we could really focus on growing our business. Bespoke retailers are given a boost in the London Borough of Waltham Lombardi sees his business as the Forest, but the retail scene may be set alternative to the mass production of for a lift elsewhere too. manufacturing in the far east. “About 95% of bikes and bike components Those living in and around the town are made in China and we want to centre are set to see an extension of provide an alternative to that,” he says. The Mall on Selborne Road following a decision by the council to resolve Racer Rosa typifies the type of to grant consent for proposals for a business found at Central Parade, mixed-use development to rejuvenate with its broad array of varied Walthamstow town centre. craftspeople, designers and artists. The plans, being brought forward Having a dedicated shop to work by shopping centre owner Capital at in the hub means Lombardi can & Regional, include building give his clients the focused attention an extra 8,769sq m of retail and and consideration needed to create a leisure floorspace, to accommodate bicycle tailored to their needs. new retailers.

“The made-to-measure bikes are Expansion will boost employment in 57 specific to the individual. Every single the area with more than 500 full and Retail and innovation part of the machine is customised,” part-time roles created by the influx of Lombardi explains. retailers into the revamped space.

“For our clients, purchasing a bike There will be 502 new homes from us is the equivalent of getting a included within the redevelopment tailor-made dress rather than buying project, along with a new town square something mass produced from a high and gardens. street shop.” Waltham Forest’s retail scene is clearly Because the majority of Racer Rosa’s being bolstered as it caters for both customers see the investment in a bike independent and bigger brands. Sites set on Lea Bridge Waltham Forest Council is looking for expressions of interest in three Lea Bridge sites. Huub Nieuwstadt reports

Sites in Lea Bridge: Argall Way (far left) and Orient Way (left).

The London Borough of Waltham SITE TWO: LEA BRIDGE ROAD Forest is marketing three landmark The largest of the three sites (0.41ha) development opportunities located in is currently used as an informal the Lea Bridge area. open space. This site could facilitate cultural and conventional commercial Since the reopening of Lea Bridge uses, underlining council aims for the station in May 2016, the council has sites to support a new neighbourhood begun to create a new gateway to the as the new local centre. borough in this area. SITE THREE: ORIENT WAY 58 The three sites will be disposed to This is the smallest of the three sites,

Sitematch deliver high quality residential-led, measuring 0.2ha. mixed-use development, including a new entrance for Lea Bridge Station. It is an open grassed area adjacent to the railway. The council sees the SITE ONE: STATION SITE, site as suitable for a residential tower, ARGALL WAY which should not be as tall as the The first site is a triangular shaped proposed landmark tower on site one. grass area roughly 0.25ha in size and The ground floor may be used for conveniently located adjacent to the retail or employment purposes. entrance of Lea Bridge station. The redevelopment of three sites The site offers an opportunity for is a part of the borough’s wider the development of a residential regeneration strategy, which could tower, functioning as a landmark for see the delivery of 4,000 new homes the local area and highlighting the in the area, as well as 100,000sq m of location of the station based nearby. additional business space.

A tall building will also benefit The area benefits from excellent from scenic views across Lee Valley transport links with direct train Regional Park to the west of the site. connections to Stratford and Tottenham Hale. Local residents The ground floor can be used for enjoy numerous amenities, including retail purposes. green space and leisure facilities.

Director of investment and delivery, Jonathan Martin and head of strategic regeneration, Will Teasdale from the London Borough of Waltham Forest are keen to discuss this opportunity at the next Sitmatch London on 8 February 2018. For more details contact Josie Brewer on 020 7978 6840 [email protected] 59 Section heading

LINKEDIN.COM ● Kingston ● Redbridge Organised by Organised ● Islington ● Government Property Unit #SITEMATCH18 Join the discussion event yet. event Barking and Dagenham ● Basingstoke London needs.” London needs.” 8 February 2018 8 February ●Hounslow www.sitematchlondon.com Forest ● Wandsworth Waltham contact Josie Brewer ● Harrow ● Havering ● Hampshire County Southwark Council sector and private sector. sector. sector and private For private sector attendees For [email protected] [email protected] Hillingdon Sitematch London 2017 brokered 2017 brokered London Sitematch Newham ● NHS Property Services @SITEMATCH 324 meetings with 55 public sector with 55 public sector 324 meetings development and economic growth. development Hackney Lewisham ● Lambeth ● Merton ● Ministry of Justice In 2018 we’re back with a In 2018 we’re desire for developers to build what desire for developers to build what new look and the biggest look and the biggest new Richmond ● Southamptom City ● Southwark ● Sutton sitematchlondon.com Bexley ● Brent ● Camden ● Crawley ● Ealing ● Enfield Greater Authority London land owners in attendance, stimulating stimulating in attendance, land owners 155 Bishopsgate, London, EC2M 3YD London, 155 Bishopsgate, involved, please contact Paul Gussar please contact Paul involved, you’re a local authority looking to be Sponsors Book now If you’d like to attend as a delegate, please contact Josie Brewer, [email protected] For enquiries about sponsorship, or if you’re a local authority looking to be involved, please contact Paul Gussar, [email protected] or call 020 7978 6840 These public sector attendees are ready to meet you, These public sector attendees are ready to meet you, book your place now to secure your meetings. Places cost £899+VAT Date: 8 February 2018 155 Bishopsgate, London, EC2M 3YD Venue: 9.00 – 16.30 Time: For enquiries about sponsorship, or if enquiries about sponsorship, For Adur & Worthing ● Adur & Worthing – Eleanor Kelly, chief executive, chief executive, – Eleanor Kelly, “I think opportunities like Sitematch help to “I think opportunities It’s actually about matching the opportunities about matching the opportunities actually It’s that exist in terms of land to the ambition and that exist in terms really raise up the conversation between public really raise up the THANKS FOR HAVING US 60 Sitematch

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