East End retailers set for boost with rent-free units in regeneration scheme

A business development scheme in the East End of London has announced plans to revitalise the area in the wake of COVID-19.

START HERE is set to provide retail space to local businesses and organisations rent-free for a trial period of one year as part of its post-coronavirus transformation of Aberfeldy Street in Poplar.

Led by High Street Works, a multi-disciplinary collaboration between Meanwhile Space CIC and Jan Kattein Architects, the START HERE scheme has been commissioned by Aberfeldy LLP, a joint venture between developer EcoWorld London and housing association Poplar HARCA.

The programme aims to give organisations an opportunity to trial their proposition or grow their business, with a rent-free first year of tenancy followed by below market rates.

Steve Stride, chief executive at Poplar HARCA, commented: “A one year rent free period is a unique and welcome opportunity for businesses to take advantage of post COVID-19.

“Aberfeldy Street is at the heart of the wider regeneration of the area, and we look forward to welcoming new businesses to an already close and diverse community.”

Ben Ffoulkes-Jone, project director at EcoWorld London added: “High streets are vital spaces that bring communities together, and now more than ever it is important that we are supporting new, local businesses that are the heart and soul of the high street.”

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