According to the latest statistics, there are 1.56 takeaways in Tower Hamlets for every thousand residents. In the last three years, this figure has increased by 7pc and the number of takeaway fast food shops has risen by 8pc. Many of these businesses are located in deprived neighbourhoods. However, the overall takeaway rate remains high, with the area's restaurants and takeaway shops comprising 23pc of all food outlets.
Tower Hamlets was formerly part of the ancient civil parish of Stepney. In the early nineteenth century, it grew by around 20% every ten years. The growth of docks in the area intensified land use, creating new communities and a high level of economic activity. In the north, weaving was the main occupation, with boot and furniture making the next largest industries. The development of factories in the district led to the creation of the docks, which contributed to an increased level of employment in the area.
Apart from being part of the East End, Tower Hamlets has many parks and open spaces. Its most popular park is Victoria Park, which is separated from the neighbouring borough of Newham by a canal. Similarly, its Isle of Dogs peninsula is part of the Olympic Park. The local authority of the borough is Tower Hamlets London Borough Council. In fact, the borough has over 100 parks! And with a population of nearly one million people, it is no wonder that it is one of the most popular places for takeaways.