London Borough of Bexley

Wards of Bexley

London Borough of Bexley is a London borough located in the southeast of London, England. It is part of the Outer London region and borders the London Borough of Bromley to the south, the Royal Borough of Greenwich to the west, and is bounded by the River Thames to the north. Across the Thames, Bexley shares borders with the Borough of Dartford and the Borough of Thurrock in Essex. The borough covers an area of approximately 60.56 square kilometers and is one of the 32 London boroughs that make up Greater London.

History

The London Borough of Bexley was established on 1 April 1965 by the London Government Act 1963. It was formed from the amalgamation of the former area of the Municipal Borough of Bexley, the Municipal Borough of Erith, the Crayford Urban District, and part of the Chislehurst and Sidcup Urban District. This reorganization was part of a larger effort to restructure London's local government in the mid-20th century.

Geography

Bexley's geography is characterized by a mix of urban and suburban development, with significant green belt areas, particularly in the south of the borough. The area includes towns such as Bexleyheath, Sidcup, Erith, and Welling. The River Thames forms the northern boundary of the borough, providing a scenic waterfront and opportunities for leisure and recreation.

Demographics

As of the latest census, the London Borough of Bexley has a diverse population, with a mix of ethnic backgrounds. The borough has seen growth in recent years, with an increase in both residential development and population.

Economy

The economy of Bexley is varied, with a mix of retail, manufacturing, and service industries. The borough is home to several business parks and shopping centers, providing employment opportunities for residents. Bexley's proximity to central London and the Thames Gateway also makes it an attractive location for businesses.

Transport

Transport in the London Borough of Bexley is well-developed, with numerous London Buses routes, railway stations served by Southeastern and Thameslink services, and road connections to the rest of London and beyond. The borough does not have any London Underground stations, but it is served by the Elizabeth Line through nearby stations.

Education

Bexley has a range of educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools, academies, and colleges. The borough is known for its high-performing schools, many of which have achieved excellent results in national examinations.

Culture and Recreation

The borough boasts a variety of cultural and recreational facilities, including libraries, parks, and sports centers. The Hall Place and Gardens, a historic house and gardens located in Bexley, is a popular attraction. The borough also hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year.

Governance

The London Borough of Bexley is governed by the Bexley London Borough Council. The council is responsible for local services such as education, waste collection, and town planning. The borough is divided into wards, each represented by elected councillors.