News from Barking & Dagenham – November 2023
“We have to build”
Darren Rodwell, Leader of the Council, has spoken out under this headline. One in 23 children is homeless in our twin city. He is taking the generation that built the Becontree district after the First World War as his role model. At that time, an entire district was created for war returnees and for the many Ford employees. Rodwell addresses the government. Instead of spending £60 million a week on housing the homeless in London, the money should be spent on creating affordable housing.
Korean help with housing modernization
Barking and Dagenham Borough Council, together with the Thames Freeport Association, has signed a contract with the Seoul Digital Foundation, South Korea. Together, existing homes are to be brought up to date on a large scale. This starts with effective heating systems and thermal insulation and is also intended to make the apartments safer. Preparations are being made for the installation of aids for the disabled. The work is to be driven forward jointly and the experience in both countries is to be used. The cooperation agreement was signed in Barcelona at the Smart Cita Expo World Congress by the Leader of the Council, Darren Rodwell, and his deputy.
Curriculum thoroughly cooked through
Over 2000 pupils in 14 schools in Barking and Dagenham took part in an interactive online campaign in which experts gave tips and information on healthy eating and proper seasoning. Young people reported on the “habits” of microbes that they had thoroughly observed. The campaign was initiated in the run-up to the establishment of three wholesale stores, which will offer many apprenticeships.