In the fifth episode of this series, Dave Hill explores Brick Lane, which runs through the heart of Spitalfields in the East End and has a special place in London’s history. For centuries, the narrow street and its surrounding area has been a place of industry and of sanctuary for incomers from other parts of the world.
In recent decades, this avenue has transformed into a creative and leisure quarter, full of cafés, bars, crafts markets, vintage clothing shops and entertainment as well as workspace. Central to this has been the reinvention of the former Truman Brewery, which stopped making beer in 1989 and became today’s buzzing cultural and retail hub.
Seeking to build on its success, the Truman company has produced plans to develop a car park and yards within its complex, with the goal of adding to its widespread appeal. However, an alliance of opponents has been seeking to block the plans, claiming they will compromise the architectural essence of Spitalfields and have a detrimental effect on local businesses and residents, in particular Bengali Londoners who have been integral to Brick Lane’s character for many decades.
This latest episode in our London Explained series aims to bring enlightenment to a contentious subject, with interviews, archive material and historical insights. It tells a more nuanced story about the issues involved, leaving listeners to reach their own conclusions about the best way to look to the future while valuing the past.
The podcast he podcast is researched, written and presented by Dave Hill, editor and publisher of the website OnLondon.co.uk and a London Society trustee, and produced by Andrew McGibbon for Curtains for Radio Ltd. It was supported financially by the Truman Brewery Company, with The London Society retaining full editorial control.
