What do you think of when someone says Woolwich? No doubt your first thought will be the Royal Arsenal and the area’s long association with the Navy.
For a long time, it was one of the most important naval, military and industrial areas of London.
But then it hit the doldrums. Its Thames-side location no longer desirable, its reputation diminished.
It became a legacy town. Known more for its foot tunnel and its association to Arsenal football club’s early history than anything else.
In other words, it started to go under the radar.
Became unloved. Unwanted. Undesirable.
But that is all starting to change again. It’s becoming a place of significant urban renewal.
Lots of regeneration. Lots of potential opportunities for investment.
Just this week, the Royal Borough of Greenwich announced that it is investing £2.1million to make sure its town centres – including Woolwich – are clean, lively and thriving.
Woolwich Works, described as London’s best new cultural spot, is bringing live comedy, music and family events to the area.
Perhaps most surprisingly – or not, given the number of Gurkha soldiers and their families who have settled in the area over recent generations – Woolwich has become a hotbed for Nepalese cuisine.
The Royal Borough of Greenwich has the highest-number of Nepalese-born residents in London, fuelling a demand for authentic Nepalese food and a proliferation of restaurants, cafes, market stalls and food trucks selling delicious momo – Tibetan-inspired dumplings that melt in the mouth – and other Nepalese delicacies.
Nepalese food is quite unique, drawing on the influences of its neighbours – India, China and Tibet specifically – but also completely its own thing.
It’s drawing the tourists. It’s drawing the foodies looking for their next Instagram or TikTok moment.
Woolwich is becoming trendy again.
This shows how quickly things can change. Urban regeneration can make a huge difference.
And, perhaps most importantly, shows the importance of looking at those areas that remain a bit under the radar.
The Elizabeth Line made it easier for people to reach Woolwich again. Nepalese food is giving the area national recognition again.
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