Key Points
- East End Homes marked the 20th anniversary of taking over five key Tower Hamlets estates from Tower Hamlets Council in 2005.
- The estates involved are Mile End, Island Gardens, St George’s, Holland, and Glamis.
- The takeover followed resident votes approving the transfer to East End Homes, a social landlord.
- Over £260 million has been invested by East End Homes to transform more than 3,900 homes.
- More than 380 new social and accessible homes have been built for local residents.
- East End Homes manages community centres on each estate and provides various community-led services.
- The organisation works closely with residents, corporate partners, and local organisations to foster community well-being and development.
- The 20th anniversary was celebrated with a series of resident events, including lunches, parties, and community engagement activities throughout the summer of 2025.
- Daniel Killian, the new CEO, reaffirmed commitment to resident-focused housing services.
- East End Homes highlighted significant achievements including safer, greener neighbourhoods and hundreds of job and training opportunities created.
What Is the Significance of East End Homes’ 20th Anniversary?
As reported by Victoria Heggie of the East London Advertiser, East End Homes celebrated the 20th anniversary of its inception as a registered social landlord and the transfer of five major Tower Hamlets estates in April 2005 following a vote by the residents. This anniversary marks two decades of transformation and localised housing management after taking estates from the local council.
Daniel Killian, the Chief Executive Officer, newly appointed from Gravesham Borough Council, commented: “East End Homes has a proud history of involving residents in decision-making and has developed strong ties to the communities it serves. I’m committed to the provision of exemplary housing services, based on an understanding of residents’ needs, that will contribute to thriving and resilient local communities”.
Which Estates Did East End Homes Take Over?
The estates transferred from Tower Hamlets Council to East End Homes in 2005 are:
- Mile End Estate
- Island Gardens Estate
- St George’s Estate
- Holland Estate
- Glamis Estate
Each estate has been the focus of ongoing regeneration and community investment.
How Has East End Homes Transformed These Estates?
Since the takeover, East End Homes has invested over £260 million to improve these five estates, comprising more than 3,900 homes. These improvements include refurbishments, environmental enhancements for cleaner and greener spaces, and new builds.
Significant accomplishments highlighted include:
- The development of over 380 new social and accessible homes.
- Improvements to make the neighbourhoods safer and more sustainable.
- Creation of hundreds of jobs and training opportunities for local residents.
- Management of four community centres offering activities and services.
What Community Engagement and Resident Involvement Has There Been?
East End Homes places strong emphasis on resident involvement in decision-making. Their housing services are community-led, ensuring that the diverse needs of Tower Hamlets residents are heard and addressed. This approach has been fundamental over the last 20 years, as the housing provider continues to foster local connections.
Throughout the summer of 2025, East End Homes held multiple anniversary celebrations on the estates. For example, there was a special lunch at Southern Grove Community Centre in Mile End, supported by corporate partners such as Morgan Stanley, who volunteered to assist with the event and apprenticeship opportunities.
How Did the Anniversary Events Bring Residents Together?
The 20th anniversary featured several celebrations:
- The first party for Holland Estate residents.
- Mile End residents were welcomed at the Southern Grove Community Centre event in July.
- More community events were held on the Glamis and Island Gardens estates later in the summer.
These celebrations included food, entertainment, and opportunities for residents to share memories and build community spirit. Volunteer efforts, including resident volunteers and corporate partners like Barclays, contributed to ongoing events like annual Christmas lunches for older residents, helping build a sense of belonging and support.
What Role Do Corporate Partnerships Play in East End Homes’ Mission?
Corporate partnerships are a vital part of East End Homes’ strategy to support social responsibility and community development. Barclays, for example, has supported the OAP Christmas Lunch since 2018, with Katherine Thompson, Vice President of Capital & Portfolio Management at Barclays, describing the event as “an incredible day” focused on connection, giving back, teamwork, and community demand.
“The interaction is incredible—relationships are built. It’s so rewarding to see the same guests return and find out how they’re doing,” Thompson said. This ongoing commitment highlights the integration of corporate social responsibility with local community benefit.
What Are East End Homes’ Plans For the Future?
Looking ahead, East End Homes is preparing a new Corporate Plan to ensure the organisation remains fit for the future and continues delivering resident-focused services. The organisation is also in the process of recruiting a permanent Chief Executive to guide this next phase of development.
East End Homes continues to strive for a model centred on resident involvement, high-quality housing, and community resilience. The milestone anniversary celebrations this year have also been an opportunity to reflect on two decades of achievements and to reaffirm commitment to the local East London communities.
How Is East End Homes Unique As a Social Landlord?
East End Homes is distinctive for being deeply embedded in the Tower Hamlets community with locally based housing services and neighbourhood centres on each estate. With over 120 staff and extensive resident volunteer involvement, its approach emphasises local leadership and responsive services.
