Tower Hamlets estate transformation begins with 407 new homes
Tower Hamlets Council has formalised a major redevelopment partnership to overhaul the Harriott, Apsley, and Pattison (HAP) House estate. The local authority signed a Development Agreement and Phase 1 Construction Contracts with Vistry on 7 April 2026, shifting the project from the planning stages into active delivery.
The flagship regeneration scheme will deliver a total of 407 new homes. This project represents the council’s largest current redevelopment effort, aimed at modernising aging infrastructure while significantly increasing the local housing stock. Beyond residential units, the plans include a new community centre and a purpose-built mosque to replace the existing facility currently located on the site.
Housing allocation for overcrowded families
Phase 1 of the construction focuses on immediate local needs, providing 109 new council homes. This initial stage includes 59 replacement homes for existing residents and four wheelchair-accessible properties. A key priority of this phase is the delivery of 22 homes specifically dedicated to families currently living in overcrowded conditions on the estate.
Phase 2 will expand the site further with an additional 298 homes. Of these, 66 are designated as council homes, and 30 will be built to wheelchair-accessible standards. The development is designed to integrate with the surrounding environment through a new pedestrian street that will link the estate directly to Stepney Green Park.
Infrastructure and community facilities
The architectural design incorporates two new landscaped courtyards intended to serve as secure amenity spaces for residents. The inclusion of the new mosque and community centre is part of a broader commitment to maintaining the social fabric of the area during the physical transformation of the estate.
Lutfur Rahman, Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, stated that the transition to the construction phase turns long-term plans into a reality for the community. The Mayor noted that the partnership is designed to provide modern, safe, and accessible housing while creating local jobs and skills opportunities through social value commitments built into the contracts.
Construction timeline and safety approvals
Kevin Delve, Managing Director at Vistry East London, confirmed that the signing of these agreements follows years of collaboration between the developer, the council, and local residents. The project team is currently finishing site preparation and navigating the final regulatory hurdles.
Full construction activity is scheduled to commence following Gateway 2 approval from the Building Safety Regulator. This regulatory milestone is currently forecast for mid-August 2026. Phase 2 is planned to follow Phase 1 immediately to ensure continuity in delivery and minimise disruption to the Stepney Green area. The partnership with Vistry secures the external investment required to complete the multi-year transformation of the HAP estate.
Source: Tower Hamlets Council
