Stifford Community Centre redevelopment in Stepney Green approved

Tower Hamlets Council's development committee gave the green light for the revamp of the Stifford Community Centre site in Stepney Green.

The proposal involves the construction of four and five-storey buildings, accommodating 31 self-contained residential flats, all designated as 'affordable' rent homes, alongside a replacement community centre.

The development will be situated at 2-6 Cressy Place.

In addition to the homes and community centre, the redevelopment scheme incorporates amenity areas, car and cycle parking, a delivery bay, refuse and recycling stores, and landscaping works.

These improvements will extend to the existing public open space in Tinsley Road and the adjoining public realm between Tinsley Road and Redmans Road.

Tim Waters, agent for the applicant, stated that the project would provide a "greatly improved facility for the local community".

However, the plan stirred significant opposition from the community.

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Joy Tara Bibi, representing residents and service users, voiced concerns about the lack of consultation and transparency, seeking assurances that the new centre would remain accessible and affordable for the local community.

In response, the council clarified its process for marketing revamped community facilities, stating that the Stifford Centre could reapply for use.

The council also assured that rents for the new centre would be set at a community rate, with the potential for a community benefit reduction of up to 80 per cent.

Councillor Gulam Kibriya Choudhury expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of engagement with stakeholders during the consultation period and the absence of four-bedroom properties in the scheme.

The application was approved with a vote of four in favour and two against, granting permission for the redevelopment to proceed.