Alice, 89, heralds start of £600 million Canning Town regeneration

One of the oldest residents of a town today started the demolition of the last housing block standing in the way of a £600 million regeneration.

Alice Lashmar, 89, helped clear the way for the development which will see 1,100 new homes and 60,000 square metres of retail, offices and leisure facilities built in Canning Town, east London.

Ms Lashmar, who has lived in the area all her life, said it was about time it was "spruced up a bit".

Construction of the town centre is expected to take 10 years and will create 500 jobs during the construction phase.

Ms Lashmar said: "I have lived in Canning Town all of my life and have many fond memories of the town.

"I have seen it go through a lot of changes over the years and it is about time the area was spruced up a bit so that the future generations can reap the benefits and enjoy living here as much as I have."

Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales, said: "Today signifies the start of new beginnings for our area that will bring improvements for many residents.

"This sends a powerful signal that Newham means business - this project is part of a once in a lifetime opportunity to turn around the prospects of Canning Town for residents and we are determined to get a better deal for them."

The 11-storey Swanscombe Point, in Clarkson Road, was one of the final blocks in a 16-acre brownfield site which has been cleared to make way for the development, which is supported by the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation.