Tower Hamlets News

10/01/2026

The Meals On Wheels initiative serves a vital service for the most vulnerable in our community- the elderly and those impacted most by the ongoing cost of living crisis.

The service was relaunched in Sept 2025 by Mayor Lutfur Rahman after it was scrapped by former Mayor, John Biggs.

09/01/2026

“After Tower Hamlets council refused planning permission for the Truman Brewery redevelopment in July, a government-appointed inspector held an inquiry to decide the fate of the site. Unusually, secretary of state Steve Reed “called in” the development midway through the inquiry in October, overriding both the inspector and local planning law.

In a letter seen by the FT, Tower Hamlets mayor Lutfur Rahman pushed back against the minister’s decision to intervene.”

East London landmark is latest site in capital to be identified for high-tech redevelopment

08/01/2026

Corporate Director for Communities, Simon Baxter, passed away this week. RIP 😞

I am deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Simon Baxter, our Corporate Director for Communities.

I have known Simon for nearly two decades, and enjoyed a wonderful personal and professional relationship with him.

Simon understood and was passionate about what we are trying to achieve in Tower Hamlets – supporting residents and working to improve people's lives and enhance opportunities across our borough.

His tireless efforts to help realise this vision reflected his nature as a human being – kind, warm and someone who went above and beyond to help others.

He will be sorely missed, and I send my heartfelt condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.

01/01/2026

31/12/2025

Shamima Begum, who grew up in Bethnal Green, has had her attempt to come back to Britain revived.

Shamima Begum has had her attempt to come back to Britain revived by a challenge from European judges. The European Court of Human Rights has asked Britain to justify its decision to strip the 26-year-old of her citizenship in 2019 after she travelled to Syria to join Islamic State (IS). The court.....

06/09/2025

Local businessman and prospective MP candidate Abdul Shukur has released a video statement addressing his attendance at a protest widely described as ‘far right.’ In the video, he outlines his reasons for being there.

31/08/2025

🚨 Local influencer gets the inside scoop! 🚨
In the middle of today’s protest, a Tower Hamlets influencer grabbed the mic and interviewed one of the protesters. Here’s what they had to say:

19/08/2025

A new survey shows the average tenant spends 36% of their income on rent, which can be even higher, depending on the landlord