Tower Hamlets (England)

The London borough of Tower Hamlets was formed in 1965 from the boroughs of Bethnal Green, Poplar and Stepney. It is located on the north bank of the River Thames, includes the Tower, London's landmark, and has a population of around 190,500.

Tower Hamlets had to overcome economic and social problems when almost all the port facilities and docks were closed in the 1970s. In the meantime, new industries and service providers have settled there.

Many residents work in banking, insurance and administration. But there are also good opportunities for small businesses, retailers and restaurants.

Tower Hamlets' tradition as a place of refuge goes back a long way. Religious persecution drove French refugees to the Thames. Eastern European Jews found refuge here from the pogroms in their homeland. In the 20th century, Asians and Africans arrived and gave their residential areas their own cultural character. During the Second World War, Tower Hamlets suffered severe destruction from German air raids. The new townscape emerged from rubble and ruins.

The partnership, which has existed since 1956, achieved lively exchanges between young people, senior citizens, disabled people and sportspeople. The exchange came to a standstill in 1985 due to financial difficulties on the part of the British partner. The partnership is now dormant.