I see that the Art Newspaper is reporting the availability of the Whitechapel Bell Foundry for rent (https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2022/11/01/everything-has-a-price-estate-agent-lists-historic-foundry-that-once-cast-big-bens-bells). It’s a wonderful site and I can see that it could potentially be turned into an art gallery. But I am still hoping that the relevant heritage agencies – most notably, Historic England, Tower Hamlets and the National Heritage Lottery Fund – will see the benefit in retaining its historic use which is at least as much a part of its historic interest as the building. There was a feeling from some of the heritage agencies that London did not need to protect a place of manufacture. But manufacturing is part of London’s history as well as banking.
| Charles | Saumarez | Smith | 
Dear Charles
This is a no brainer. Return the foundry back into its former use or let it become a cultural space. What is wrong with Historic England/ LBTH and their lack of imagination, common sense and ambition?
It’s heartbreaking what’s happening to London…
A case in point – remember Spitalfields Market before it became a tourist sideshow. Soho & Tottenham Court Road have been turned into Las Vegas!
I am currently on the DAAD residency in Berlin and you couldn’t imagine a more different approach. Yes, there a new builds but there’s also a preservation of historic buildings being used in creative ways for community and artistic use. I’m enjoying the Markthalle’s with their wonderful mini restaurants and food counters. come together to fight back against It’s so inspiring!
Best wishes from Vienna, Salzburg back to Berlin
Elaine (Stepney born and bred!)
Dear Elaine, Yes, you’re right that Berlin has been better than we have at preserving and re-using original buildings, including industrial buildings. They don’t seem to regard demolition as a sign of progress as we do. Charles