Derelict garages transformed into affordable homes

Vacant and underused garages are being converted into new housing, as Tower Hamlets Council aims to tackle the housing crisis.

The garage spaces in Spitalfields and Banglatown, which were associated with antisocial behaviour, have now made way for seven new affordable rented homes to be completed in 2022.

The open space around the development is also being developed, alongside addressing existing access problems associated with the street.

With one of the highest housing densities in London and just eight square miles in total, space to build in Tower Hamlets is in short supply, with the Council having to look to unique solutions to address its housing demand.

Cllr Danny Hassell, cabinet member for housing, said: ‘I was very pleased to visit the development in Spitalfields and Banglatown and see first-hand the work being carried out to deliver these new affordable rented homes. We want to use every opportunity across Tower Hamlets to build homes which tackles the housing shortage and by making use of this former garage space, we are showing we are making best use of our land.’

John Biggs, mayor of Tower Hamlets, added: ‘London is in the midst of a housing crisis. Having an affordable, secure home is difficult for many people due to rising private rents and a lack of genuinely affordable homes. We are working hard to provide housing and the use of these former garage spaces in Spitalfields and Banglatown is a good example of doing this.’

In related news, a new fund will help to build thousands of new homes on underused and derelict land, regenerating local areas and helping to address housing shortages.

Almost £58m from the £75m Brownfield Land Release Fund (BLRF) has been allocated to 53 councils.

5,600 homes are expected to be built on these brownfield sites, with the demolition of derelict buildings and disused car parks and garages making way for new properties.

Photo by Rico Van de Voorde