Issues
Geography: Edexcel A Level, topic 6.6.3
Issues in Tower Hamlets Because of Gentrification
Gentrification has brought positives and negatives, and there have been anti-gentrification protests.
Wealth
- Gentrification has brought more wealth to the area but it has also led to some original residents having to move as house prices rise and shops and services change to suit the tastes of the new, wealthier, community.
- The number of affordable homes in the area has fallen as developers seek to maximise profits from their investments.
Anti-gentrification
- Anti-gentrification protests took place in and around Spitalfields in September 2015.
- A series of letters were written to The Guardian newspaper highlighting major concerns about the impacts of gentrification in East London.
- Many have lamented the loss of community and argued that many developments fail to address the capital’s housing shortage or help local businesses.
Test yourself on Issues
When did the anti-gentrification protests in and around Spitalfields take place?
What has fallen in the Tower Hamlets area as developers seek to maximise their profits?