celebrating the best of Canary Wharf, Docklands and the new east London people - events - treasure - property - foolishness How the Eden Project is a source of life and ideas for the Wharf Page 12
how JP Morgan Chase’s decision to build its new London o ce in Canary Wharf reveals the area’s strong foundations as a new year begins Pages 10-11
inside issue 152
University Of Sunderland In London - Crosswords - Sudoku
The Dial - Billingsgate - Draughts - North Gate Park - Dagenham Green
The Winter Club Ice Bar - Supershakes - Wax London - Soma
Kricket - Deutsche Bank - Visa - Cargo - Pureseoul - David Lefebvre Sell
on 020 7205 4021 or email cmiller@kiddrapinet.co.uk, ypatel@kiddrapinet.co.uk or mzvarykina@kiddrapinet.co.uk
Call our team on 020 7205 4021 or email cmiller@kiddrapinet.co.uk, ypatel@kiddrapinet.co.uk or mzvarykina@kiddrapinet.co.uk
| Simply Dan
the sounds of Steely Dan from
Canary Wharf
Boisdale Of Canary Wharf Cabot Place
Welcome to issue 152 of Wharf Life. With the festive season in full swing there are plenty of new things to get your teeth into such as Nora and Wax in Canary Wharf as well as The Dial on Greenwich Peninsulaand the o cial launch of Orbit Clipper. Wishing all readers a Merry Xmas and a Happy 2026
KIDS | Little Dockers: Snowy Sessions This session for toddlers under 5 o ers little ones the chance to explore a city transformed by swirling snow storms. Early booking advised. Jan 14, 10.15am, 11.15am, free, londonmuseum.org.uk
West India Quay
| La Traviata Live and love, to the last breath. Watch Richard Eyre’s production of Verdi’s opera live as the performers do the business at Covent Garden. Jan 14, 6.45pm, £19, cineworld.co.uk
She’s electric: The rst zero emissions cross river ferry in the UK is now operating between Canary Wharf and Rotherhithe with capacity for many more bikes and passengers
The Dial gives
on the radar
need to know
Having only recently moved in, Revolut is set to get a new neighbour. Deutsche Bank has announced that it will be taking about 250,000sq ft of space in the YY London building, by our reckoning leaving just one oor of the tower unoccupied. db.com
13
Discover places to live with new homes showcased in Property
At the time of going to press, Korean beauty brand Pureseoul was set to open its doors on December 11. The launch will be the fth in ve weeks for the company, which has also set up shops in Cardi , Newcastle, Kingston and Manchester pureseoul.co.uk
22
How the University Of Sunderland In London’s health, social care and nursing courses o er prospective students a blend of academic rigour and career-friendly experience
Supershakes is o ering 30% o until January 31 on its core range of shakes
The Power shake is available at the brand’s Wood Wharf branch priced £6.97 with the discount, usually £9.95 TRIED + TESTED Power Supershakes @supershakes
Recently opened in Wood Wharf, Supershakes blends and sells drinks that will typically set you back about a tenner.
While science has yet to really con rm many of the supposed bene ts of speic c ingredients, there’s no shortage of options and add-ons here, promising everything from help with muscle recovery, stress management, energy balance and (gulp) internal cleansing.
In the end I can’t decide between the magnesium or the chlorophyll (£1.45 extra) so just opt for the basic Power shake instead.
This grey-green stu is a mix of banana, spinach, chia seeds, almond butter, spirulina, raw honey, cinnamon, almond milk and something called “vanilla plant protein”.
There’s sweetness and plenty of banana on the tongue with, oddly, an aftertaste of carrot cake. It’s not unpleasant, although the narrow straw means this drink is a bit of an endurance workout for the facial muscles, due to the suction necessary to hoover it up. I’m not left all powerful, but I’d return for another slice.
Jon Massey
doing the deals
get more for less on and around the Wharf
25%
Get 25% o food at Kricket, Sun-Weds when booking with code CANARYWHARFAPP Terms and conditions apply, see the Canary Wharf app for details kricket.co.uk
30%
31
Indulge in some serious gaming over the festive season at Draughts
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Soma, tucked away behind Kricket, is o ering 30% o cocktails from 5pm-midnight on Mondays and from 4pm-10pm on Sundays for groups of up to six soma.london
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With you from the start
Our immigration team has earned its strong reputation for providing expert legal advice and practical support on a wide range of immigration issues. Trust us to help you make the right application. 020 7205 2896 kiddrapinet.co.uk
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irenic
PLANNING AHEAD
Winter Lights Canary Wharf canarywharf.com
adjective, real, from Greek Dating from 1854, this term describes something that tends to promote peace. In this season of goodwill to all humans (odd we don’t think of the whole year as this, really), maybe it’s time to ask how we might all be more irenic?
It’s nearly that time of year again – all we have to do is get through Christmas and New Year and it’ll be time for Canary Wharf’s Winter Lights festival.
Celebrating its 10th edition, the free event is set to run across the estate from January 20-31, 2026, with installations operating daily from 5pm-10pm. This time around, the theme will be Dreamscape, promising surreal experiences.
Full details are due to be revealed later this month, so check the website for listings.
While no decisions have yet been taken, private equity rm Blackstone is reportedly once again considering selling o ce building 25 North Colonnade, following a resurgence of demand for space in Canary Wharf. Renamed Cargo, following a refurbishment, an earlier attempt to sell the tower, which houses Market Halls on its lower levels was abandoned due to depressed values. The building is fully let and boasts a communal roof terrace. Its owner will likely be looking for more than £270million, having paid £165million in 2014, having previously looked for a yield above 7% on the deal.
The Winter Club in Union Square is a curious venue – not exactly frictionfree to visit, but worth checking out. This is especially true of its Ice Bar, tucked away at the back of its beer hall-style tent, it costs £24.95 per person to visit and includes two drinks – either beers, Prosecco or sticky avoured shots in glasses made from ice. Then visitors are free to endure the chill in padded jackets while posing with sculptures depicting Tower Bridge, a black cab and a phone box. Pleasingly bonkers.
Joining the likes of Deutsche Bank, JP Morgan Chase (see Page 10) and Zopa, making moves on the Wharf, digital and payment network Visa is set to double its o ce space when it relocates to One Canada Square. The business recently announced it would take
300,000sq ft of space in the estate’s totemic tower to cap o Canary Wharf Group’s strongest year for leasing in more than a decade.
The past 12 months has seen more than 750,000sq ft of space let to businesses in a variety of sectors as demand grows in east London.
Capital-based clothing company Wax London has opened its doors in Cabot Place. The menswear brand specialises in sourcing fabric from mills it assesses as sustainable. Its designs are focused on cosy comfort and include a wide range of
jumpers, chunky overshirts, jackets, coats, shirts and trousers.
Shoppers can expect generous cuts with oversize details and recycled materials in muted tones with occasional pops of colour as well as a selection of hats and accessories. MAKING A MOVE
advertising feature
how Nora in Wood Wharf is offering a fresh take on Turkish food with plenty of fish on offer
advertising feature
The past 12 months have been a thrilling time for the Canary Wharf hospitality scene, with many new venues opening their doors. Wood Wharf has been right at the heart of the excitement, welcoming the likes of Ong Lai Kopitaim, Signorelli, Café Seek, Supershakes and Crate, alongside a clutch of independent businesses.
With floristry at The Flower Club, exercise at The Island Reformer Pilates studio, fourlegged friend pampering at Pawsome Pet Grooming And Spa, manicures and pedicures at Awe London, chic cuts at Wayne Hairdresser Salon and clothing care and manufacture at Omnifix, Canary Wharf Group’s collaboration with Tower Hamlets Council to offer affordable space to small firms is bringing the area to life.
The latest addition to that mix is Nora, a restaurant and bar that “honours the dynamic city of Istanbul”.
Located on the corner of West Lane and Union Square, the venue is a warm space clad in wood, terracotta tiles and Turkish vinyl LPs. It’s the latest opening from brothers Ozgur and Sidar Akyuz, who together run Café Beam –bunch-focused venues in Crouch End, Muswell Hill, Highbury and Notting Hill. Nora, however, is a fresh venture – a chance to do something different.
“You can do things in Canary Wharf that you can’t do anywhere else,” said Ozgur, who spent time working in fintech before joining his brother in hospitality. “The area is very familiar to me – I used to come here a lot because many of our clients were based on the Wharf. It was a very positive period in my life and I have great memories. It’s very international in vibe and it’s incredible to see how much it has changed.
“When I first came here it felt almost sparse, but now it’s much cosier. The ecosystem is very diverse – people live here, they visit and there are lots of places to shop, eat and drink. It’s become something really interesting.
“Part of the idea with Nora was continued on Page 9
Starting price for a set menu at Nora. The restaurant also offers a £65 per person option
Nora welcomes guests into a warm space clad in wood, with vibrant LPs on its shelves
cuisine showcasing the
Image by Ben Leigh-Anders, supplied by Nora
Nora can handle parties of up to 40 guests across multiple tables. Those wishing to make a group booking
Image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Interior images by Ben Leigh-Anders, supplied by Nora
Image supplied by Nora
Nora co-owner Sidar Akyuz said his favourite dish on the menu was the mackerel, pictured below
The bar at Nora in Wood Wharf
Nora’s interior features a wide array of furniture
The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner
Cucumber Cacik, £6
from Page 6
to open a restaurant with a more independent feel – something you might find on the streets of Soho or Shoreditch.
“As operators, we can be creative and hopefully open something people love at a high level.”
Sidar added: “It’s almost as though we’ve had inside information that Wood Wharf is going to be an area that will really be buzzing – a place we can bring some extra soul to.
“Restaurants can really help an area to thrive and we want to contribute to that.”
Having ridden the wave of popularity in the brunch sector with Cafe Beam, which opened its first branch in 2013, Nora is more experimental and opens daily for lunch and dinner.
“We’re both Turkish and born in London, so it’s a personal project,” said Ozgur. “We’ve looked at other cuisines and have always seen a level of progression, where it’s gone from one thing to another – people have experimented and created something new. When we look at Turkish cuisine in London, it’s always stayed in a particular style of restaurant.
“Everyone loves it and people have done a really great job, but what we want to do now is to show some of the diversity of Turkish cuisine at Nora.
“Mangal-style cooking on charcoal is still there on our menu, but we want to be more creative with it, not following dogmatic rules.
“There’s just so much more to the country’s food. Looking at Turkish culture, there’s a lot of history – there’s so much to play with – and it would be a shame not to explore that. That’s what we’re trying to do here in a way that’s accessible and exciting.
“Turkish hospitality is really uplifting, it’s entertaining and generous and we don’t want to lose that – but at Nora, we also want to push the boundaries.”
Alongside fresh takes on kebabs, diners can expect a heavy focus on fish and seafood.
Sidar said: “We want people to be surprised when they come
Looking at Turkish culture, there’s a lot of history – there’s so much to play with – and it would be a shame not to explore that Ozgur Akyuz, Nora
here – familiar dishes with a twist. My favourite thing on the menu is the mackerel.
“On the Bosphorus they catch this fish and grill it right there on the boat, put it between two pieces of bread with some salad and eat it. It’s real street food.
“In the restaurant, we cook it with a very nice herb sauce that’s very reminiscent of those flavours.”
Ozgur added: “The idea is to keep the menu changing with big cuts of fish and meat alongside dishes such as Adana Kofte kebab with confit garlic yogurt. We do things in a way you won’t have seen before.
“On the meze side, for example, we’ll do onion dolmas – Turkish dumplings – but filled with crab in a crab bisque. These are my favourite because you hardly ever see them on a menu, but everyone’s cooking them at home.
“It’s a dish that encapsulates everything we’re trying to do at Nora to showcase the history of Turkish cuisine.”
Beyond the food, the restaurant’s drinks promise a similar blend of tradition and fresh ideas.
“We have cocktails made using Turkish spices – classic drinks made new to you through the ingredients we use,” said Ozgur.
“Everything we do has a nod to Turkey in it somewhere. The wine list will be predominantly Turkish, but there’ll also be wines from neighbouring countries, like Georgia.
“For some of the wines, we’re the first people to import them from Turkey – we’ve found small vineyards run by people who are really passionate and we are giving them the opportunity to showcase their wines here.
“When you’re doing these projects, the hardest thing is to stay true to what you’re trying to achieve – everyone has their own idea of what it should be.
“Canary Wharf Group worked hard to get us here and has been very supportive. They’ve been really helpful through the process and we know – following the pandemic – how important it is to have good landlords.”
key details
Nora is located at 7 West Lane on the edge of Union Square and is open daily from noon-2.45pm and from 5.30pm-9.45pm. Dishes are available a la carte or diners can opt for set menus at £45 or £65 per person.
Go to nora.london for more information
Scan this code to nd out more about Nora
Image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Co-owner Ozgur Akyuz worked in ntech before joining his brother in the hospitality sector
Onion Dolma, Crab and Crab Bisque, £16
virtual viewpoint
by Chris Ezekiel
Christmas is a good time to ponder on arti cial intelligence, life, the universe and God. The world has gone crazy about AI. There’s a lot of talk about computers taking over the world and even eventually destroying mankind. I think this is nonsense.
Computers still run on ones and zeros with programs written by humans. Arti cial intelligence is exactly that – arti cial. The big growth in AI applications has come about due to processing power and cost reaching an in ection point.
Despite the media hype, computers can’t think for themselves and are not remotely close to doing so. They probably never will. They don’t have emotions, they can’t love or admire a ne painting or song and they can’t laugh at jokes.
They’re brilliant at processing large amounts of data very quickly, which is the same computing paradigm that is fuelling the growth in AI. This results in amazing applications that enhance our lives.
I consider myself a spiritual physicist and a Christian, even though I don’t attend church regularly. I do try to go to midnight mass on Christmas Eve at least. I nd it a refreshing escape from all the commercialisation around the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth.
I’m the one the vicar refers to when he looks up at a packed congregation at midnight and mentions about how nice it would be if this many people attended every Sunday.
Through my spirituality and interest in physics I often contemplate the universe’s beginning – how life started, whether there’s a purpose to it all, mapped out by a higher power or if our existence just a random coincidence.
It’s pretty lonely to think this tiny rock, in the vastness of space, we call Earth might be the only place where life exists.
But when you consider the miracle of life, it’s quite possible that this is the case. As the ultimate custodians, us humans have a massive responsibility to cherish life and look after one another and our beautiful rock.
If we ever solve these mysteries, I believe it will be based on both science and spirituality. Life is miraculous and may be unique in the universe. Why not then a God? Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
is
Scan this code for more information about Creative Virtual or follow @creativevirtual and @chrisezekiel on X
how JP Morgan Chase’s decision to build a new home in Canary Wharf is a good metaphor for its evolution
by Jon Massey
The London Standard recently published a piece entitled The Remarkable Story Of Canary Wharf’s Renaissance. Amid a series of somewhat confused bird-based metaphors, it tells a tale of a district brought to the brink of disaster by the pandemic and the home working trend that followed it.
It’s boisterous copy is full of “shaky foundations” bonds in “junk territory” and “symbolically damaging” moves. Scary stuff, but also – like a lot of the analysis that caused some to temporarily lose confidence in the Wharf – it fails to appreciate the silliness of short-termism when considering changes in the area. This isn’t rebirth, it’s a constant process of reinvention and growth. It’s nothing new, either.
a big deal
It should come as absolutely no surprise whatsoever that JP Morgan Chase has decided Canary Wharf is the right place for it to build a £3billion tower, providing 3million sq ft of space for up to 12,000 employees.
In 2008, the banking giant completed the purchase of a 999-year lease on land beside the Thames for its Riverside South scheme. The plans drawn up by architects RSHP (then Richard Rogers Partnership) were for two towers. The size of the scheme? A little over 3million sq ft of space.
Serious work started on the site, adjacent to Westferry Circus, with foundations created and concrete poured for basement structures. But work stopped in 2010 with JP Morgan opting instead to move into 25 Bank Street – Lehman Brothers’ former home in London. Wharf watchers will have noted that the Riverside South site has since lain dormant, rebar carefully marked with little high-viz hats and voids protected with temporary roofing. In 2015, having settled into its new home, JP Morgan nevertheless put plans to sell the land on hold, leaving the option open to develop it later.
A decade on and the bank’s need for space has grown beyond its current accommodation. This has prompted it to let space at a refurbished building in nearby Cabot Square, which was vacated by Credit Suisse following its
enforced takeover by UBS. A more permanent solution was desired and options were considered.
The bank recently unveiled its new HQ in New York. That megastructure was designed by Foster + Partners and the bank has now revealed that it has chosen the same architects to take forward plans for its new London office. Where? On the land it’s kept on its books for the past 17 years. The project is expected to contribute £9.9billion to the UK economy, with completion in around six years’ time.
Jamie Dimon, chairman and CEO of JP Morgan Chase, said: “London has been a trading and financial hub for more than a thousand years, and maintaining it as a vibrant place for finance and business is critical to the health of the UK economy.
“This building will represent our lasting commitment to the city, the UK, our clients and our people. The UK government’s priority of economic growth has been a critical factor in helping us make this decision.”
Shobi Khan, CEO of Canary Wharf Group, added: “We are delighted that JP Morgan Chase has once again chosen Canary Wharf as its primary UK location.
“The scale and ambition of this scheme – set to become the largest office building in London – demonstrates the continued momentum behind Canary Wharf’s evolution and the bank’s commitment to outstanding workplaces. 2025 will be our best leasing year in over a decade. Five of the top global investment banks are located at Canary Wharf.”
In the context of a millennium, 17 years doesn’t really seem all that much time to wait...
words matter CWG is spot-on when describing the way the Wharf has changed over the years. The project to transform derelict docks into a hive of activity and prosperity has constantly twisted and turned.
Wood Wharf was originally conceived as an office-led expansion of the existing scheme, only for residential towers to rise instead. The idea that the area has been reborn fails to recognise the granular diversification of an estate that now services the needs of workers, residents and visitors passing through for a multitude of reasons.
The financial services institutions sit alongside life sciences,
create 7,800 jobs across construction and local industries
Below an artist’s impression of the bank’s original scheme for the site, now abandoned
Chris Ezekiel
founder and CEO of customer engagement solutions specialist Creative Virtual based at Canary Wharf’s Cabot Square
Years the project to build JP Morgan Chase’s new building in Canary Wharf is expected to take
Above, an artist’s impression of a roof terrace that is set to be created as part of Foster + Partners’ designs for JP Morgan Chase’s new building at Riverside South. The project is expected to
Canary Wharf - West India Quay
they say reactions to the plans
>> Rachel Reeves, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, said: “My Budget doubles down on growth as our number one priority by creating the conditions for businesses to invest and succeed.
“I am thrilled that JP Morgan Chase has chosen London for its landmark new building – a multi-billion pound vote of confidence in the UK economy and this government’s plans for growth, which are built on the rock of stability.”
>> Lutfur Rahman, mayor of Tower Hamlets, said: “I am proud of the success of Canary Wharf which is creating investment and job opportunities for local residents and boosting the ecosystem around local businesses.
“This announcement is fantastic and welcome news for the long-term prosperity of our borough.
“We are excited by the opportunity this investment can bring, including the creation of a new world class park on the Thames for our community, Londoners and visitors to our city to enjoy.”
government, parts of the NHS, digital banks, charities and educational organisations as well as an ever-growing retail and hospitality offering.
There’s even a whale made of ocean plastic and a theatre. This isn’t coincidence. It’s an area unafraid to act on opportunity, to try new things but, crucially, to put in solid foundations to start with so that when the world needs it to be a different shape, it has something firm to build on.
recent successes
In some senses, Riverside South’s foundations are a decent metaphor for what’s happening to Canary Wharf right now.
Buildings have a shelf life and organisations’ needs evolve. Challenger bank Revolut went from a handful of employees to hundreds and now thousands, recently landing on the upper floors of the YY London building, a structure extensively refurbished and renamed after the best part of three decades housing Thompson Reuters.
This process of renewal, reinvention and so evolution is going on across the Wharf, most obviously with Citi’s decision to retool its east London home and spending billions of pounds to do so. There are many other projects in the pipeline, with the value evidenced by Blackstone’s decision to put its Cargo tower back on the market following a refurb and the upturn in perceived value with a slew of businesses opting to move to the Wharf.
The recent wins for the estate are too numerous to list fully but include challenger bank Zopa at Wood Wharf, which recently moved staff in, and the announcement that Visa will relocate its European headquarters from Paddington to One Canada Square.
With 76million people expected to have visited the estate in 2025 and a backdrop of surging demand, it’s little wonder the Qatar Investment Authority, which owns the tower HSBC is set to vacate in 2027, is considering retaining a higher proportion of office space in the structure when it tackles that refurbishment.
Having continued a relentless programme of growth and improvement across the estate, Canary Wharf is arguably better placed than ever before to welcome organisations looking for smart new homes, not least because of the Elizabeth line.
Suddenly, a new ferry between Canary Wharf Pier – next to Riverside South – and Rotherhithe looks like a very timely introduction from Uber Boat By Thames Clippers (see Page 24). Go to jpmorgan.com and canarywharf.com for more
The Riverside South site has been largely dormant since 2010
Image by JP Morgan Chase / Foster + Partners
Image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
getting greener by
Sophie Goddard
Recently, you may have seen our new campaign – Where Ambition Lives – spotlighting some of the many incredible people who help make Canary Wharf what it is. One of its subjects is Dan James, development director at the Eden Project, and one of the key team members responsible for bringing our partnership with the Eden Project to life.
In recognition of our achievements through that collaboration, I wanted to share a bit more about some of our activities with Eden and how this is shaping the Canary Wharf of today and tomorrow.
The rst is through our spaces. Hopefully you will have seen and spent time at Eden Dock – the waterside oasis we unveiled at the heart of the neighbourhood last year.
The Eden Project has also shared wild ower seeds with us, which we have used to replant some of our building’s roof gardens as well as sharing guidance and advice with our landscaping team who manage our parks and green open spaces.
Alongside shaping our spaces, the Eden Project has supported our community. Last month at Crossrail Place Roof Garden, we hosted Eden Growing Connections, an event bringing together our community from Tower Hamlets and across London to showcase how nature can inspire positive action for people and the planet.
The day included workshops with terrarium potting and bulb planting, alongside a series of great conversations focused on building connections and sharing small actions that people can take every day in their own communities.
We’ve come back from our trip to the Eden Project brimming with ideas and ready to take on fresh challenges
Sophie
Goddard, CWG
That theme also featured in this year’s Big Lunch kick-o event hosted on Eden Dock in May. This brought together a huge number of community groups, local people and employers in Canary Wharf, along with some VIPs including The Queen, to share a meal and create a moment of genuine human connection.
This year we were also delighted to support the Eden Project in launching the rst ever Wild ower Photographer Of The Year Competition to mark 25 years of the Eden Project National Wild ower Centre. The winning photos are on display at Eden Project Cornwall this Christmas and will be coming to Canary Wharf in the spring.
Beyond these events, our partnership with Eden is helping shape the vision we have for the future.
While the CWG team is hard at work looking at how to upgrade our buildings, the Eden Project team are advising us on how these large refurbishment projects can work for both nature and people, whether it be through landscaping design, plant speci cation or education and engagement opportunities to help people get closer to nature in their everyday lives.
More than anything, our partnership is about how we learn from each other. My
team and I recently went down to Cornwall for a couple of days to visit the famous biomes, hear from the Eden Project team about their experiences and explore how we can take our collaboration even further. We’ve come back from that trip brimming with ideas and ready to take on fresh challenges in the new year – I hope to see you here in 2026 to witness what we do next.
For further inspiration go to edenproject.com
Image supplied by Canary Wharf Group
east of
Eden Dock features boardwalks, seating areas and extensive planting
The Queen attends the launch of The Big Lunch in May
Starting price for tickets to see Peggy Zina when she comes to London for one night only
Peggy Zina is set to play Troxy in January
a single
storied Greek songstress Peggy Zina is gearing up for an east London gig celebrating 20 years on stage
by Jon Massey
Athens-born singer
Peggy Zina is set to perform a special gig at Troxy in Limehouse in January. Having spent more than two decades as an artist, she’s set to come to the capital as part of a joint venture between Anefani Productions and London Greek Radio.
Known for her heartfelt ballads, Peggy has nine platinum and two gold records to her name, having
made her debut in 1995.
Her rst hit was An Pas Me Alli Tha Sou Spaso to Kefali, which translates as “If You Go With Another Woman I Will Break Your Head” a ttingly bombastic start to a career that has seen her release 14 studio albums, consistently tackling themes such as heartbreak, love and resilience.
Audiences can expect a wide selection of hits from an artist who has played a major part in developing popular Greek music over the last 20 years. It’s a fair bet that the likes of Mazi Sou, Ime Kala,
To Kalokeri and Ego Ta Spao will get an airing on east London’s Art Deco stage.
key details
Peggy Zina is set to play Troxy in Limehouse with One Night In London on January, 25, 2026. Doors open at 7pm, with tickets starting at £48. Go to troxy.co.uk for more information
Scan this code to nd out more about the gig
what’s on things to do, places to go, people to see
KIDS | Tooob
Small people aged 6-24 months and their adults are invited to meet this friendly shape-shifting creature as she learns about her environment. Jan 16-17, times vary, £9, halfmoon.org.uk
Where? Troxy Limehouse
GIG | Paleface Swiss Riding high o the back of their album Cursed, the metal out t have teamed up with Stick To Your Guns and Static Dress for a potent gig in east London. Jan 17, 7pm, £39.44, troxy.co.uk Where? Half Moon Theatre Limehouse Where? Wilton’s Music Hall Wapping
STAGE | James Joyce’s The Dead Presented by The Fourth Choir, this staging of the author’s short story features Irish folk songs rendered without accompaniment. Book fast. Jan 20-22, 7.30pm, from £14.50, wiltons.org.uk
There’s still time to catch Christmas Jazz On The Water at St Katharine Docks on December 14 and 18. Olivia Swann and her band will perform seasonal favourites on a oating pontoon with tickets from £18.04 skdocks.co.uk
Scan this code to nd out more about the two gigs in the open air with blankets provided
2Years - length of the Univeristy Of Sunderland In London’s foundation degree in Health And Social Care, which can be topped up to a full BSc with an extra year of study
how the University Of Sunderland In London blends practical experience and study for those in the care sector
by Jon Massey
We are very passionate about making sure our students are appropriately alified and experienced when they go out into the market,” said Dr Banhishikha Ghosh of the University Of Sunderland In London (UOSiL).
“We have academics here who have real-world experience of the nursing and care sectors so they can equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical know-how.”
Banhishikha has a number of roles at the university, based on the Isle Of Dogs at Harbour Exchange. She’s both academic champion for employability and enterprise and people, culture and environment lead for REF research in addition to her position as lecturer in health and social sciences.
This trio of jobs – located at the intersection between employment, research and academic study – means she’s well placed to sho case the instit tion s o erings to individuals thinking of studying in its social care and nursing departments.
As well as a two-year foundation degree in Health And Social Care, the ni ersit o ers one ear c top-up courses in Health And Social Care and Nursing Practice as well as postgrad courses in Public Health, Nursing Practice and Adult Nursing, the latter leading to eligibility to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council on successful completion.
“Health And Social Care and Nursing are two departments that work together,” said Banhishikha.
“A student, for example, might start with the former and then move on to nursing. Many move on from our BSc programmes to postgraduate study.
“We are a young and vibrant campus with a mix of students from all over the world and Britain. Many already have degrees ith so e alified as doctors, nurses and pharmacists who come to us to get a UK alification so the can ork in this country.
“One of the reasons individuals should consider studying with us is that we have a fantastic employability team, which connects students with local organisations.
“We are looking at a very dynamic employment market,
now including AI, so we hold events and workshops as well as an Employability Week once a year where we bring in people working in various industries to help inform students about what skills they need.
“We also feed the students information about internships so they can go out be a part of the healthcare industry.
“Some launch careers before the finish their degrees and see them engaged in placements and volunteering. That means by the time they graduate they have enough experience to apply for jobs and it feels really lovely when o see the take their first roles. We rely a lot on our alumni and our network as academics to help support our students and link the ith di erent o ort nities and organisations.
ro the first da on ards e let students know what they have to do to build that experience.
“We advise them to get internships before they come, so they can help us work out what would be the best direction for them.
“We have three pathways we encourage our students to follo . The first is the anagerial pathway, which trains them to understand how leadership works.
“Then there is the mental health pathway for support workers in that sector. Finally, there’s the research pathway, which includes data gathering, report writing and primary and secondary analysis.”
Collaboration with outside organisations is key to the UOSiL’s o ering. The ni ersit works with many partners including near neighbour Verve Homecare and its sister company Revolution AI – both based at Harbour Exchange but primarily providing services in people’s residences.
“I’ve recently transitioned to the health tech side of the business,” said Layla Hyda, head of innovation at Revolution AI. “My mum has been a carer for more than 25 years and refuses to retire, so I learned a lot about the sector and healthcare in general from her. started o in recr it ent placing nurses in NHS hospitals, but I realised there was so much more I could give. I then went to work as an internal auditor, analysing care workers and their checks, working my way up to management level where I was responsible for the complex needs
Dr Banhishikha Ghosh is a lecturer in health and social sciences at the University Of Sunderland In London, based on the Isle Of Dogs
Images by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
of children and adults and the ellbeing of the sta looking after them. I absolutely loved it – I learnt so much more about the sector e en tho gh at first it felt scary being thrown in the deep end.
“Now I have the opportunity to ork in inno ation and i ro e things for the benefit of so e of the most vulnerable in our society – that’s my passion.
“Having met with the university, I found they needed placements for students and that I could facilitate that. kne it o ld be a great opportunity for them to see hat orking in the sector is like.
“People forget that care is not just about hospitals and nursing homes – there’s also homecare where, in a nutshell, we provide sta to look after a erson in the comfort of their home. There’s a lot to consider, but our number one riorit is al a s aking s re that person is safe.”
The aim of the collaboration is to o er st dents ractical ex erience and valuable insights into jobs available in the sector.
Layla said: “We give those coming on placements a complete induction so they understand the ins and outs of care and our company.
“If a student has an interest in co lex care for exa le e t them in training sessions at no cost to them so that they can get that ex os re to it and see if the ant to follow that path.
“Someone interested in mental health might get similar training. Then students have an opportunity to sit with the operations team, dealing with rosters and recruitent and re e lo ent checks.
“Depending on the student, they can go on visits with a care team in a shadowing role.
Those not ha ing that ex eri ence ill be ith s in the o ce seeing everything that happens behind the scenes, and assist with that.
“That’s equally important beca se both o erations ork in conjunction with each other.”
The university is also orking ith er e and Revolution AI on a research project aimed at improving training for care orkers and hel ing ro iders retain sta ore e ecti el .
n a first for the ondon ca s the university has been awarded £211,000 of funding from Innovate UK for a project that aims to “generate vital insight into the li ed ex eriences of frontline care orkers to enhance alit care s ort orkforce ellbeing and embed equity into social care training and delivery”.
anhishikha said t s a ro ect that is close to our hearts. When I
One of the reasons individuals should consider studying with us is that we have a fantastic employability team
Dr Banhishikha Ghosh, UOSiL
first oined the ni ersit e had lect res and orksho s and e gave students the opportunity to talk abo t the lace ents and their ex erience of orking in the organisation.
“In these very small but very rich focus groups, the feelings that came out were that students were not e i ed eno gh to take care of atients and the o ld like it if they had better training.
“When I met Layla, I realised she had so ch ex erience in the industry.
“Sometimes carers come and go in the industry – there’s a revolving door – and the reason could be that they do not have enough training. At the moment education is for carers, but not necessarily ‘by them’ or ‘with them’.
“The idea is that, in partnership ith er e and e ol tion e seek to enrich the training fra e orks that are alread there b ta ing into the ex erience of care orkers es eciall those of women from migrant populations
ho are the backbone of the care system. We capture data from them that can be fed into the system to create robust training, hich e i s the better at ork. e also ant to ork ith others – we’d love to be connected with other organisations who are interested in this area and have information they want to share with us.”
Layla added: “For us, person-centred care is an essential part of what we do. It’s about the holistic way we deliver services –the people not the bed numbers.
“Training in the sector can be reading slides on powerpoint presentations and tick box exercises. It’s very easy to pass and could be improved.
“With this project, we are really excited to set the bar high e want to stop that revolving door. O r goal is to e i o r care sta with the right tools they need to gi e the the confidence to go o t into the field and deli er the holistic care people deserve.”
key details
The University Of Sunderland In ondon o ers a range of co rses in health and social care and nursing at its Isle Of Dogs campus at arbo r xchange. ll details of these can be found on its website. Go to london.sunderland.ac.uk
Scan this code to nd out more about the courses
Isle Of Dogs - Poplar - Blackwall
what’s on things to do, places to go, people to see
MUSIC | Jessica Wu
Where? The Space Isle Of Dogs
The rst in a series of classical music recitals in support of the venue, the pianist takes on works by Debussy, Beethoven and Chopin. There’s a bake sale too. Jan 11, 4pm, £10, space.org.uk
Where?
Theatreship Isle Of Dogs
EVENT | Gri Rhys Jones: Overboard
The comedian steps on board for an evening of conversation, questions and the odd answer about his life on boats. Proceeds to the venue. Dec 21, 7pm, from £13.12, theatreship.co.uk
KIDS | Air-Dry Shape And Clay Workshop Designed for SEND children aged 0-5, these sessions use soft clay to help them explore their senses and mould unique creations. Book online. Jan 15, 22, 29, 10am-noon, free, poplarunion.com Where?
back
Piano Piano Studio o ers music lessons in a wide range of instruments plus singing and production, all tailored to kids’ interests. It also puts on special concerts where pupils gain performance experience pianopiano.uk
Scan this code to read our interview with founder Andra Kruka and nd out more about the next concert on Dec 14
Poplar Union Poplar
Layla Hyda, head of innovation at Revolution AI, sister company to Verve is working with the university on placements and a research project
how the introduction of Orbit Clipper is a key milestone in green transport as the RB4 ferry goes zero-emissions
by Jon Massey
The sleek, aquadynamic shapes of Uber Boat By Thames Clippers’ eet ha e long lent ondon s ri er a futuristic look. Their lo rofile hite li er is an aesthetic more similar to ad anced aircraft and sci fi s acecraft than l bering t gs on the water.
They look like they’re built for s eed to the oint here seeing the anoe re gentl into osition at a ier is so ething of is al aradox.
It’s impossible to be sure, but the company’s preference for such designs ight ell ha e la ed a art in its s ccess in deli ering fast ri er b s ser ices here others had failed before.
st seeing one of its essels blast past at full speed is to want to board. There’s a thrill there, a real excite ent as clo ds of s ra kick up behind.
While the latest addition to the eet is a di erent ani al alto gether its design is also a tanta lising ros ect for assengers. Orbit li er o ciall n eiled on ece ber carries a cargo of inno ation ato her t in h lls. ilt to ferr assengers between Canary Wharf and otherhithe she s being hased into o eration alongside o tgoing essel T instar hich has s ent ore than fi e decades carr ing eo le across ario s bits of the Thames.
While the older boat could take to 12 eo le and axi of fi e bikes Orbit has s ace for 1 as well as up to 100 bicycles. Tardis-like she seems considerabl bigger inside ith an intelligent roll on roll o design for e cient boarding and dise barkation once safely across. enero sl gla ed at the sides assengers sit or stand beside large triang lar indo s that let light and ie s ood in. n short st listicall she s a essel ell realised to ser e a ier ad acent to the site that is set to be filled b the largest o ce to er in the organ hase s ne ri erside to er ( ee age 1 ). Orbit is well cast for the future too. he s the s first f ll electric ero e issions ferr ith aluminium used to make her lighter.
The ro ect has seen Tha es li ers ork ith ight
£4.10
hi ard o an arine ci il engineering cons ltant eckett Rankine, and electrical infrastructure specialist Aqua Superpower.
Uber Boat By Thames Clippers CEO and co-founder, Sean Collins, said: “It’s been a remarkable o rne it hasn t been eas b t inno ation ne er is.
“The team has embraced this ro ect nobod s gi en e al a s belie ed it o ld be deli ered and here e are.
atching Orbit crossing feels brilliant she fits in so ell ith the architecture of Canary Wharf. e belie e there s a real o or t nit here to f rther de elo this concept and implement it at other locations along the Tha es Estuary.
o eti es eo le li ing b the ri er feel disad antaged beca se the ha e to go back inland to ake a crossing. The Tha es can be seen as a barrier and it shouldn’t be. Instead, we should be connecting o r co nities across it.
“Orbit Clipper not only showcases c tting edge inno ation but also sets a new standard for eco friendl tra el on the Tha es hel ing to sha e a cleaner greener f t re for ondoners and isitors alike
t Orbit s n eiling attended by Mayor Of London, Sir Sadiq han and re resentati es fro ber nno ate and other stakeholders in the ro ect there was a clear emphasis on the new craft s orting those tra elling by bike.
gro of c clists fro ritish Triathlon wheeled their mounts on and o the essel as a ractical demonstration of the way it allo s tra el bet een a or routes such as Cycle Superhigh a and iet a 1.
“This is a fantastic new transort o tion for ondoners not onl cleaner and greener than its redecessor b t ro iding quicker and more accessible o rne s across the ri er for far more people,” said Sadiq. nno ation and in est ent in tra el infrastr ct re like this ill hel s na igate the challenges facing o r en iron ent and o r econo as e contin e b ilding a fairer greener better ondon for e er one.
Ruth Daniels, CEO at British Triathlon, added: “With space for up to 100 bikes, Orbit Clipper gi es triathletes co ters to rists and an one tra eling across ondon a greener a ore
making the
Cost of a standard single journey between Canary Wharf and Rotherhithe on the Uber Boat By Thames Clippers ferry
Mayor Of London, Sadiq Khan attends the unveiling
The new vessel is 100% electric
The ferry has been designed with cyclists in mind
Orbit Clipper makes her way to Canary Wharf Pier from Rotherhithe
We believe there’s a real opportunity to further develop this concept and implement it at other locations along the Thames Estuary
Sean Collins, Thames Clippers
convenient way to get around. The ability to integrate river bus services into their routine adds a welcome, sustainable alternative.”
Hers was a sentiment echoed by Uber UK general manager Andrew Brem. He said: “By boat, bike or car, Londoners now have even more options to take a zero-emission journey across the capital with Uber.
“Whether you’re commuting to work or enjoying the sights of the city, the Orbit Clipper is a brilliant addition to the Thames and is an important milestone in the electrification of ondon s transport options.”
The introduction of the new vessel also marks an important step in Thames Clippers’ mission to cut its carbon emissions by 50% by 2035.
The company is already operating three hybrid highspeed passenger vessels – Earth, Celestial and Mars. These operate on battery power in central London to reduce emissions and biofuel elsewhere to recharge the boats’ power.
Orbit is being introduced gradually to ensure service continuity. She is expected to be in full service by spring 2026.
Plans to have her self-dock at either end of her journey are currently on hold due to delays in supply and installation of the necessary systems.
key details
Orbit Clipper has begun a phased introduction to Uber Boat By Thames Clippers’ RB4 ferry service between Rotherhithe and Canary Wharf.
Single journeys on Oyster or via the Uber or Thames Clippers Tickets apps cost £4.10.
Passengers can buy a carnet of 20 tickets for £57.40 on the apps, reducing a single fare to £2.87. The journey takes approximately three minutes.
Go to thamesclippers.com for more information on sailings and fares
Scan this code to nd out more about Thames Clippers
Rotherhithe - Deptford - Bermondsey
what’s on things to do, places to go, people to see
WORKSHOP | Just Write It
Where?
The Albany Deptford
Write for an hour, then spend 60 minutes sharing to gain constructive feedback. Sessions are led by Ella Dorman-Gajic and Maddy Accalia. Jan 26, 6.30pm, donations from £1, thealbany.org.uk
Where? Badger Badger Deptford
EVENT | Lorwyn Eclipsed Prerelease
Celebrate the release of the Lorwyn Eclipsed expansion at this sealed deck event. Players will receive six play boosters before brewing a deck and letting y. Jan 16, 6.45pm-11pm, £36, badgerbadger.org
Where?
The Brunel Museum Rotherhithe
EVENT | Wassail Wassail Enjoy mulled drinks and bonhomie in the museum’s piazza as the Belles Of London City dance those attending down the tunnel to ensure a good harvest Jan 9, 6pm-9pm, from £15, thebrunelmuseum.com
wheel good
Deptford Lounge is hosting Roller Discos on the third Thursday of the month from January 15. Sessions run from 6pm-9pm with the last entry at 8pm. Tickets cost £8 and under-16s must be accompanied by an adult deptfordlounge.org.uk
Scan this code to nd out more about the Roller Disco sessions or to book tickets for the events
Uber Boat By Thames Clippers CEO, Sean Collins
take a breath by
David Lefebvre Sell
It’s funny how the clichés of ageing creep up on you, one moment you’re clubbing every other weekend, and the next thing you know you swear it’s going to rain because your left knee is acting up. I mean, I should probably be writing something about seasonal depression, or going to the gym, but all I can think about is why the hell is everything an immersive experience now?
The other day I saw an advert for one based on Paddington Bear. What exactly does that entail? Will a small bear be crushingly polite and supportive to me until I somehow become a better version of myself?
Ok, fair enough. I’d pay good money for that. But all that nostalgia, British humour and whimsy is probably addictive. Next thing you know, you’re rubbing whimsy into your gums in a public toilet, probably at the seaside.
Next
thing you know,
you’re rubbing whimsy into your gums in a public toilet, probably
How great would it be if we could have proper adult immersive experiences? No, not that kind of adult. I mean like First Time In A Nightclub. Imagine you’re with a bunch of 40-somethings shu ing past a bouncer, who suspiciously looks at ID for everyone in the party. Then, when you’re inside, everyone ignores you or treats you with disdain. You drink enough to oat a small boat, then wake up the next afternoon, eat a bacon roll and you’re ready to go again.
at the seaside
David Lefebvre Sell
Why stop there? How about The Baby Experience? Get wrapped up in the warmest, softest clothes before being strapped into a rolling comfy chair, that someone pushes around London with occasional breaks for snacks.
Or– I’m on a roll here – The Optimism Experience where you just delete your social media and hang out with interesting, well adjusted people for an afternoon, preferably with cheap drinks.
You could sell teenagers Middle Age Experience where you have money in the bank, but your back hurts and you’re tired all the time. Actually, no. That sounds rubbish.
David Lefebvre Sell is a Greenwich-based psychotherapist and Yoga instructor who teaches at Third Space in Canary Wharf
Follow @davetheyogi on X and Instagram and @DavidLefebvreSellYogaAndPsychotherapy on FB
Scan this code for information about David’s work as a transpersonal counsellor and psychotherapist
how The Dial on Greenwich Peninsula is built for sports fans and gives the Meantime a home in the borough
by Jon Massey
Visitors to Greenwich Peninsula arriving by Tube, can scarcely have failed to notice a new opening right opposite the main walkway to The O2. The curvy three-storey structure on the south-eastern corner of Peninsula Square, which once housed Craft restaurant, has been brought back into use via a partnership between venue operator KG Hospitality and brewing giant Asahi.
e ere first in contact abo t two years ago,” said Ricardo Guimaraes, KG co-founder. “The lease on their Meantime brewery at Greenwich was up, so they moved operations to Chiswick, but they still wanted to keep a presence in the Royal borough.
“The idea was to have a bar and a microbrewery so they would still be making beer here. We looked at a number of units inside The O2. They were good, but the logistics weren’t clear.
“Then we spoke to Knight Dragon – they showed us this space and we thought it was a great location.”
Built by the developer as a sister structure to its main marketing suite for the ongoing regeneration of the Peninsula – the two cylindrical towers share a canopy roof it s rett ch the first place tourists and commuters arriving via the Jubilee line see when leaving North Greenwich’s northern exit.
KG and Asahi took the space and the result is The Dial – a three-level sports bar and restaurant with a microbrewery at ground level and plentiful outdoor space – which opened its doors a little over a month ago.
“We especially liked the fact e ha e three oors hich gi es s the exibilit to do di erent things,” said Vineet Kalra, KG’s other co-founder.
“The lower level is a tap room and houses the brewing facilities and then the first oor is foc sed on sports.
“The rooftop bar, which is indoors and also has a terrace, is used for events, but also as an overspill area if we get busy.”
With sales already exceeding expectations by around 25% in its first onth that s a challenge the owners are already experiencing – albeit a nice problem to have – thanks to custom from the
tho sands ocking to gigs and events at The O2.
“There are about 200 shows a year and we’ve seen that, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, we can be super busy and again, lots of people stop by afterwards from about 10pm onwards,” said Ricardo. “That’s particularly true for rock gigs where the audiences are aged 25-45 and are looking for a drink – we didn’t think we’d be selling this much beer quite so soon. But we’re also nicely busy between 8pm and 10pm.”
Vineet added: “We’re also really focusing on the local community. There’s a lot of development happening here over the next few years and there will be greater demand from people living here, so it will be interesting to see how they interact with us and what e re o ering.
KG opened The Dial, more or less back-to-back with the launch of its second Amazing Grace live music venue. Building on the success of its original London Bridge bar – running out of a converted church – its new Canary Wharf branch at 12 Bank Street has been well received in its first eeks. That ro ect dre on Ricardo and Vineet’s passion for live gigs, while The Dial taps into two of their other interests.
“Again, it’s about creating somewhere we’d like to come,” said Ricardo. “Beer and sports appeal to us. We like American football, baseball – I love to watch pretty much any kind of sport.
“With this kind of venue in the UK, I think there can be a real lack of energy, so we’re trying to bring the feel of an American sports bar to London. We’ve spent quite a bit of time over there and we’re using that for inspiration.”
Vineet added: “That’s true of the food too. We’ll be doing things like wings, sandos, burgers, calamari and nachos.
“We’ll also be looking at expanding the menu in the spring and we plan to have a food truck outside too as well as an outdoor kitchen.”
Beer is clearly a key attraction at the venue, with KG already bringing in extra dispensers for outdoor areas and adding taps to its bars to help serve the crowds ore e cientl .
Meantime is represented by a series of large tanks ready to hold the beer produced on-site, with the first bre itra ale no available. Also in the pipeline is the return of the brand’s much
Dial has plentiful outdoor space
Price for a pint of Meantime Dial Lager at The Dial on Greenwich Peninsula £6
The
Ricardo, left, and Vineet have launched The Dial in partnership with Asahi and Knight
We especially liked the fact we have three oors, which gives us the exibility to do di erent things
Vineet Kalra, KG Hospitality
beloved Yakima Red, set to be a permanent addition to the en as soon as the first batch is rod ced. ints at the en e start at £6 for a Meantime Dial Lager, at a hango er friendl .4 .
“We’re brewing beers here e er three to fi e eeks and e re engaging ith local residents to o er it to the first said icardo. t s er i ortant think that e re reen ich foc sed.
“The whole idea of the venue is that eo le can ha e di erent ex eriences hen co ing here. o can co e to The ial and ha e a co le of ints before going to a sho at The O2. t then o can also co e here and atch a s orting e ent whether that’s boxing, football of 1 ith o r ates.
“We don’t look like a traditional b so o can also co e do n work on your laptop and have a drink or a eal.
e o er ri ate hire o tions and can take aro nd eo le if you want to book the whole en e.
“We’ve also had people visiting s ecificall for the beer hich is great and e re e bracing ne rod cts s ch as the lager and the Meantime Midnight Nitro Stout, hich is ro ing reall o lar. hat s nice is that The ial gives the brewery a home here again it s a lace here eo le want to go and this is a great location for that.
ineet added e re al a s learning and this venue will be no di erent. e ant to ens re this is a home for sports, food and beer where people really feel at ho e.
key details
The ial o e Of eanti e is o en at reen ich enins la dail fro noon 11 onda Thursday, until 1am on Saturdays and Fridays and until midnight on nda s.
Go to thedialldn.com for more information
Scan this code to nd out more about The Dial
what’s on things to do, places to go, people to see
GIG | Bi y Clyro
The band bring The Futique Tour to south-east London as headliners with support from both Soft Play and The Armed. Expect a lot of rock. Jan 14, 6pm, returns only, theo2.co.uk
TRY | Dance Classes For Adults Join resident dance company Protein for a winter term of creativity and movement. Suitable for adults of all ages and levels of experience. From Jan 15, 7pm, from £11.90, woolwich.works
| An Audience With Sir Derek Jacobi The actor sits down in conversation with actor and director Richard Cli ord for this exploration of his life and work. Proceeds support the theatre. Jan 19, 7.30pm, from £51.50, greenwichtheatre.org.uk
machinations
Greenwich Theatre’s panto team are taking on youth and age with Peter Pan: A New Adventure. Once more penned by Anthony Spargo, the show runs until January 11, with tickets costing £43.50 for adults greenwichtheatre.org
Scan this code to nd out more about the show and read our interview with its villainous creator
the bar
Dragon on Greenwich Peninsula
The venue is located in Peninsula Square
Image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Interior images by KG Hospitality
what’s on things to do, places to go, people to see
Where?
Cody Dock Canning Town
EVENT | Dock Aquatic Invertebrate Survey
Visit the ecological regeneration project for a deep dive into some of the spineless creatures found in the River Lea. Includes water sampling. Jan 16, 10.30am-3pm, free, codydock.org.uk
Where?
Excel London
Royal Victoria Dock
EVENT | EAG Expo 2026
This gathering of rms and experts in the gaming, entertainment and attractions sectors is set to ll the venue with tech and innocation. Jan 13-15, 10am, registration, excel.london
CLUB | Boudica
Where? Fold Canning Town
Enjoy house and techno sets through the night from the likes of Aano, Ashtrey, Biianco, Lewis G Burton and Someone Sunny. Fka.m4a will also DJ. Jan 23 , 11pm-6am,£TBC, ra.co
route extended
TfL has been granted funding to extend the DLR under the river from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead, supporting new jobs and homes in the area. The scheme also includes a new station at Beckton Riverside in the docks t .gov.uk
Scan this code to nd out more about the scheme to extend the DLR and what it will mean for the area
Square footage of space that could be created at Albert Island under planning permission from 2021 750,000
could be moving from West India Quay to Royal
to join forces with Smith eld
Billingsgate
Docks
how the Royal Docks could provide a new home for Billingsgate and Smith eld in Newham relocation deal
by Jon Massey
Big change could be in the pipeline for Albert Island. The City Of London Corporation, alongside the Royal Docks Team and Billingsgate and ithfield traders has announced the historic meat and fish arkets a o e to a site that sits between the eastern end of London City Airport’s runway and the Thames.
A possible relocation to agenha as oted do n last year, with the Corporation initially intending to shut existing sites adjacent to Canary Wharf and in the it itho t ro iding a new home for the businesses within. At the time, rising costs at the new site were blamed for the decision, with traders set to be o ered co ensation ackages instead.
Now it seems Barking And Dagenham’s loss is likely Newham’s gain, with the project expected to generate around £750million in local expenditure, create more than 2,200 jobs and boost the east London borough’s economy by £130million.
Albert Island was already earmarked for regeneration, with planning permission granted in 2021 for a mixed use scheme of some 750,000sq ft of space, a new boat ard and a rein igoration of the existing marina. Those proposals included space for startup businesses, distribution warehousing, housing and light ind strial b ildings. o e er not much progress had been made o er the last fo r ears.
Under the new proposals, all business currently done at the two sites will be brought together in Royal Docks with both markets’ apprenticeship schemes continuing to operate at the new location. A further commitment as art of the o e ill see the creation of a new food school. e are in esting in ondon s future,” said Chris Hayward, policy chairman of the City Of London Corporation.
“By following through on our commitment to support Traders to relocate, and to ensure our plans for new housing and culture at the acated sites co e to fr ition we are laying the foundations of future economic growth across the Square Mile, London and the UK. ede elo ing the c rrent market sites will contribute
billions of pounds in economic growth, thousands of new jobs and homes. There’s a lot more to do and a de elo er to be agreed – but this is undeniable progress.
“We are excited for the future, and, by ushering in a new era for these historic markets, we’re creating a win-win for traders and Londoners.”
Howard Dawber, deputy mayor of London for business and growth, added: “Billingsgate and ithfield are t o of ondon s most historic and well-known markets, employing hundreds of Traders.
a delighted that significant progress is being made towards relocating these businesses to the Royal Docks.
“The Royal Docks is one of the most exciting regeneration ro ects in ondon deli ering thousands of new homes and obs and it is onderf l to ha e illingsgate and ithfield on board as a key part of our plans for the future.”
Rokhsana Fiaz, mayor of Newham, said: “For Newham to potentially be the new home for the arkets o er at o r a estic Royal Docks would be a great honour and testament to the ision e ha e for o r boro gh as a lace to do b siness and dri e incl si e gro th.
“Working with the City Of London Corporation and the GLA, the two markets would showcase the Royal Docks as one of the most exciting destinations in London.”
The closure of the existing markets cannot happen without an act of Parliament. There had been legal challenges and a campaign against plans to shut the itho t an alternati e location in place from businesses in the capital.
Should these latest plans come to fruition, the markets will be known as New Billingsgate and e ithfield.
key details
The proposals are still in their earl stages b t o can find o t ore ia the o al ocks Tea s website.
Go to royaldocks.london for more information
Scan this code to nd out more about the proposals
Albert Island, left, is an area of largely vacant land that’s been earmarked for the relocation of the sh and meat markets
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PUBLIC NOTICES SPECIAL TREATMENT LICENCES
LONDON BOROUGH OF TOWER HAMLETS SPECIAL TREATMENT LICENCES
Notice is given that: Hang Thi Nguyen
Has applied to the London Borough of Tower Hamlets for: Manicure and Pedicure
Licence(s) for the premises: Sunshine Girl Nails, 427 Hackney Road, London, E2 9EQ
Anyone wishing to oppose the application must give notice in writing to the Service Manager Of Regulatory Services (Commercial), Communities Directorate, 4th Floor Tower Hamlets Town Hall 160 Whitechapel Road London E1 1BJ WITHIN THREE WEEKS specifying the grounds of opposition. Persons objecting to the grant of a licence must be prepared to attend in person at a hearing before a Committee of the Council.
PUBLIC NOTICES PREMISES LICENCE
LONDON BOROUGH OF TOWER HAMLETS LICENSING ACT 2003
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PREMISES LICENCE
Notice is given that: Dzrt Canary Wharf
Has applied to London Borough of Tower Hamlets Licensing Authority for a Premises Licence under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003
The premises are situated at: Dzrt Canary Wharf, 53 Skylines Village, Limeharbour, London, E14 9TS
The licensable Activities And Timings Are: Allow late night refreshments NOT alcohol sales between the hours of Sunday - Thursday, 17:00-01:00 Friday - Saturday, 17:00-02:00
Anyone who wishes to make representations regarding this application must give notice to: The Licensing Section, Tower Hamlets Town Hall, 160 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1BJ or email: licensing@towerhamlets.gov.uk Website: www.towerhamlets.gov.uk Tel: 020 7364 5008
Representations must be received no later than 08/01/2026.
The Application Record and Register may be viewed between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday during normal o ce hours at the above address.
It is an o ence under Section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003, knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum ne for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the o ence is up to level 5 on the standard scale (unlimited ne).
LONDON BOROUGH OF TOWER HAMLETS LICENSING ACT 2003
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PREMISES LICENCE
Notice is given that: Thirsty Boy Wine Co Ltd
Has applied to London Borough of Tower Hamlets Licensing Authority for a Premises Licence under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003
The premises are situated at: 252 Paradise Row, London, E2 9LE
The licensable Activities And Timings Are: Sale of alcohol for consumption on and o premises Monday - Sunday, 12:00-23:00
Anyone who wishes to make representations regarding this application must give notice to: The Licensing Section, Tower Hamlets Town Hall, 160 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1BJ or email: licensing@towerhamlets.gov.uk Website: www.towerhamlets.gov.uk Tel: 020 7364 5008
Representations must be received no later than 01/01/2026.
The Application Record and Register may be viewed between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday during normal o ce hours at the above address.
It is an o ence under Section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003, knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum ne for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the o ence is up to level 5 on the standard scale (unlimited ne).
£9.50
Cost of three hours of gaming at Draughts during peak hours for adults. The price drops to £7.50 for o -peak hours
Draughts will be open in Stratford on Boxing Day, NYE and New Year’s Day
how Draughts is offering a series of dates for players to take on family and friends during the Christmas season
by Jon Massey
Recently launched board game cafe Draughts in Stratford has announced it will open for a series of special sessions over the festive period for east Londoners who fancy a friendly contest or two.
Located below East Bank overlooking Waterworks River, the venue boasts hundreds of games for guests to choose from including classics such as Catan, Ticket To Ride, A Dog’s Life and many others.
“Boxing Day at Draughts is all about getting everyone together and making the time feel special,” said founder Nicholas Curci.
“Get ready for all the cosy catch-ups, big reunions and longoverdue quality time that make
this time of year special. We have more than 1,000 games available to play but, as ever, the real joy comes from the people you share them with.
“Whether you’re celebrating with family or friends, we’ve got the perfect spot to slow down, sip a mulled drink and a festive treat, reconnect and enjoy each other’s company, a bit of friendly competition and a lot of laughter.”
Open from noon-11pm on Boxing Day, the venue will also be welcoming visitors from noon-1am on New Year’s Eve and from 4pm-11pm on New Year’s Day. Gaming admission costs 7. o eak or 9. d ring peak hours for three hours of play. Kids under 12 go free and children aged 13-17 are half price.
Guests can expect street food-inspired dishes from Korea, Mexico and Japan and a full selection of
craft beers, cocktails and wines. A range of hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages are also available.
key details
Draughts Stratford is located on Aquatics Walk below East Bank opposite the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The venue is normally open from 4pm-11pm on weekdays, from noon-midnight on Saturdays and from noon-10pm on Sundays. The company also operates a location in Waterloo, hidden in a gra ti stre n t nnel. Go to draughtslondon.com for more information
Scan this code to nd out more about Draughts
what’s on things to do, places to go, people to see
SCREEN | National Theatre Live: Hamlet (12A) Hiran Abeysekera takes on the lead role in what’s being billed as a fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy. Jan 27, 1pm, £22, everymancinema.com
SKILLS | Full Studio Podcasting The open session aims to explore how podcasting can amplify hidden voices and reshape storytelling. Academics, students and collaborators are all welcome. Jan 15, 4pm-6pm, free, ucl.ac.uk
PANTO | Mama Goose Vikki Stone and Tonderai Munyevu’s pantomime is on right through the festive season promising a show of silliness, music, local references and joy. Until Jan 3, times vary, from £10, stratfordeast.com
seasonal silliness
Sadler’s Wells East is staging its rst ever festive show. Ebony Scrooge is a reimagined version of Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol, complete with hip hop beats and street dance. Performances run until January 4 sadlerswells.com
Scan this code to read our interview with Rhimes and nd out more about her take on Dickens’ classic
Sudoku
How to play
To complete Sudoku, ll the board by entering numbers one to nine such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
More to play
You can nd more Sudoku puzzles and a wide selection of other brainteasers available to download for free at puzzles.ca
Notes
crossword
beating the whether you’re cryptic sleuth or synonym solver in it for quick wins, this should satisfy
Cryptic Quick
Take a break from that phone Across
1. Old whisky accompaniment? (4)
3. Lower falsehood exists beneath (8)
9. Exhausted in year 2000 for US elections in 2026 (3-4)
10. Town-dwelling Pope? (5)
11. An attempt by Thomas Cook or Morse? (3,9)
13. Recent weight discovers gravity (6)
15, 4 dn. Comfortable integer? It’s an easy job (1,5,6)
17. Not on actions have confused meanings (12)
20. Place for actors to get angry if they make one (5)
21. Norse god and French water create a writer (7)
22. Not the part of New York for a story (4-4)
23. Not very likely (2,2)
Down
1. Quality housing of note (8)
2. A city for cowboys to avoid? (5)
4. See 15 ac.
5. Bush for horses to beat around? It’s their calling (12)
6. We own the science workroom, but it’s a struggle (7)
7. Add sodium for an eruption (4)
8. Pulse enumerators or jobsworths? (12)
12. Optical taxidermy or make-up (3-5)
14. Canine speakers? (7)
16. Said to be the organisation of the USA (6)
18. The finish of cricket scores (5)
19. Mix up of untruths forms a geographical feature (4)
