I’ve lived in the Eastend for over 35 years. By Nurull Islam
Most people in Mile End call me by my surname, Islam.
I used to live in Mile End but I’ve just moved down the road, so i’m always local. I am one of the Co-Founders of Mile End Community Project (MCP) an organisation that aims to nurture young people’s talent to help them to recognise their potential. We are located in the heart of the estate, next to a parade of shops and the local mosque, so a great location based in the heart of the community where we can engage with as many locals as possible.
What do you love about the local area?
As a parent, parks have to be on my list of favorite spots. I can say that Tower Hamlets has some of the best parks – including Mile End Park. I remember when it used to be just a big empty field, it was really nice but I love the improvements they’ve made to the park, with the bridge and walkways and cycle lanes. Tower Hamlets has some great places to dine and Mile End is no exception with a range of restaurants and take-aways opening up on a regular basis, lots of options! I do like Shish on Burdett Road, a Turkish restaurant with an Asian twist on some dishes and of course healthy options. Having said that, I enjoy going to the many chicken shops on Mile End Road – yes, I know it’s not the healthiest food but all things in moderation I say!
‘At MCP, we even produced a film about the Chicken Shops that has won multiple awards, so I have to stay loyal to them!’
Meds on Burdett road is also a great place to grab breakfast & lunch, its always really busy but worth the wait. Dessert parlours are popping up everywhere as well and again due to my kids (I do not have a sweet tooth) Sweets on Mile End Road ( near Stepney station ) is a great place, nice decor, friendly staff and great food.
Tower Hamlets may be among one of the poorest boroughs but we are rich in diversity and creativity – that brings us all together.”
Its not just the food that’s great but the surrounding area is very enjoyable as well. It’s a shame that Tower Hamlets did not win the Culture Award but massive congratulations to Waltham Forest. Tower Hamlets may be among one of the poorest boroughs but we are rich in diversity and creativity – that brings us all together. Tower Hamlets is seeing a massive change in the borough, before we only had a few street tours for tourists, Jack the Ripper, some local history, but know you can sign up to art walks.
How do you see the area developing?
There are a number of restaurants that can accommodate the diverse communities that live here. Mile End Road is great for transport links; with both good train and bus routes and not to mention the CS2 and cycling options. I think it would be good to re-start the markets back on Burdett road again, I loved them and have a few ideas for that…watch this space. Mile End has some great spaces and organisations, I would like to see us all help the local young community with jobs and also empower more women into starting up their own businesses.
Growing up in Mile End, there weren’t many spaces or provisions for young people. Personally I think it was a good thing at the time as my childhood included a lot of outdoor activities and “adventures” however, there came a point when we would see young people hanging around on street corners. This is why we at MCP wanted to create a space following generations so they can make a difference and be part of something bigger.
To find out more about Mile End Community Project go to:
www.mileendcommunityptoject.org
(Photography: Top two photos by Rehan Jamil, bottom photo by Nurull Islam)
Thank you Nurull for allowing us to interview you!
From the team at Mile End Rd.