London Borough of Redbridge

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Redbridge London UK labelled ward map 2002

London Borough of Redbridge is a London borough in East London, England, and forms part of Outer London. It is known for its leafy suburbs, excellent transport links to central London, and diverse community. The borough was created on 1 April 1965 by the amalgamation of the former area of the Municipal Borough of Ilford and the Municipal Borough of Wanstead and Woodford, which were previously part of Essex.

History

The history of the area now known as the London Borough of Redbridge dates back to ancient times, with evidence of Roman and Saxon occupation. The name "Redbridge" comes from a bridge over the River Roding, which was demolished in the 1920s. The area became increasingly urbanized in the 19th and 20th centuries, with significant development in housing and public transport infrastructure facilitating its growth.

Geography

Redbridge covers an area of approximately 21.78 square miles and is bordered by the boroughs of Waltham Forest to the west, Newham and the Barking and Dagenham to the south, the Havering to the east, and the county of Essex to the north. The borough's landscape is characterized by parks and open spaces, including parts of the ancient Epping Forest, Hainault Forest Country Park, and Valentines Park.

Demographics

As of the latest census, Redbridge has a diverse population, with a significant proportion of residents from ethnic minority backgrounds. The borough has a mix of communities, including substantial South Asian, Jewish, and East European populations. This diversity is reflected in the variety of cultural festivals, restaurants, and shops found throughout the borough.

Economy

The economy of Redbridge is supported by a mix of retail, healthcare, and education sectors, with significant employment provided by the public sector. Ilford is the main commercial hub, hosting a large shopping center and a range of businesses. There are also several industrial areas, primarily located in the south of the borough.

Transport

Redbridge is well-served by public transport, with numerous London Underground stations on the Central Line providing access to central London. The borough also benefits from overground rail services and an extensive bus network. Major roads include the A12 and the North Circular Road, offering good connections to the rest of London and the surrounding areas.

Education

The borough has a wide range of educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools, sixth form colleges, and adult education centers. Redbridge is known for its high educational standards, with many schools rated as "Outstanding" by Ofsted.

Culture and Community

Redbridge has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous arts and community centers offering a variety of events and activities. The Redbridge Drama Centre and the Kenneth More Theatre are notable venues for theatre and performances. The annual Redbridge Carnival celebrates the borough's cultural diversity.

Governance

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

See Also

• List of districts in Redbridge
• Parks and open spaces in the London Borough of Redbridge
• Transport in the London Borough of Redbridge