The article discusses the transformation of the East End of London since the first episode of EastEnders aired in 1985. Urban changes driven by migration, industry shifts, and policies like Margaret Thatcher's Right to Buy scheme have drastically altered the geographical and cultural landscape. Through reflections from East End Poet Chris Ross, the piece captures nostalgia for the past while acknowledging the complexities of changes, particularly how former residents left for more affluent lifestyles. However, the essence of the East End remains in shared memories and community ties.
"People say, 'Oh, I miss the old East End.' Yeah, what do you miss? The outside toilets or the old tin bath... No, it's not. You miss being young; we all miss that."
"In the 80s, when Mrs Thatcher sold everybody their council places... that had a huge impact on the East End, to be perfectly honest."
"Though myself living a bit further east now, I still walk down the Roman [Road] and see people I knew from way back when... There is something about that East End 'thing'.”
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