Planning & Architecture Services in Barking and Dagenham London Borough

Barking and Dagenham London Borough History

The London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, located in the eastern part of the city, has a history dating back to Roman times. Barking Abbey, founded in the 7th century, played a significant role in the area’s development. During the Industrial Revolution, Barking and Dagenham experienced growth with the expansion of industries like fishing, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. The area’s population increased as people moved here for work. In 1965, Barking and Dagenham became a London borough through the merger of the Municipal Borough of Barking, the Municipal Borough of Dagenham, and a part of the Municipal Borough of Ilford.

The mid-20th century brought rapid post-war development, including the construction of public housing estates to accommodate the growing population. However, the decline of traditional industries in the latter half of the 20th century presented economic challenges. In recent years, the borough has seen regeneration projects aimed at improving infrastructure, housing, and overall quality of life. The council of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham is responsible for local governance, comprised of elected councillors representing the interests of the diverse population. Today, the borough is a vibrant and culturally diverse area continuing to evolve and develop, with efforts to enhance the quality of life for its residents and promote economic growth.