A multi-million pound revamp of an estate in Stepney Green has been completed after four years as part of a project which will provide hundreds of new homes.

East London Advertiser: The refurbishment at Ocean Estate has seen the lawn mowed and new trees plantedThe refurbishment at Ocean Estate has seen the lawn mowed and new trees planted (Image: Archant)

The £29 million refurbishment of Ocean Estate has improved the outside of 1,200 council homes and built nearly 800 tenants new kitchens and bathrooms, bringing their homes in line with the Decent Homes standard set by the government.

The estate is now greener than before with 376 trees planted and more than 7,000 new shrubs.

The refurbishment also includes a new ball court facility and two new play areas for children.

Mayor of Tower Hamlets Lutfur Rahman said: “I believe the landscaping works have made a big difference and I hope that all residents are enjoying them and feel a renewed sense of pride in their neighbourhood.”

The work is part of a £220 million programme called Transforming the Ocean, which will build a parade of shops and create 819 new homes, including 395 affordable homes, 295 for social rent and 100 for shared ownership.

The project is being led by Tower Hamlets in partnership with East Thames Group.

Cllr Rabina Khan, cabinet member for housing, said: “These improvements were necessary and I am sure everyone who lives on the Ocean Estate will agree that this investment has dramatically improved the area.”

Geoff Pearce, director of development and property at East Thames Group, said: “It’s great to see the years of planning and working with residents on their vision for the landscape of the estate coming to life.

“It’s a project we are extremely proud to be involved in and our long-term commitment to the area as a major landlord continues.”

For more information visit www.transformingtheocean.co.uk.