“Drugs dealt in broad daylight.” That’s the stark reality some residents describe here at Lisson Green Estate. The Lisson Green Estate in West London sits between Marylebone Station and the Church Street development. This area has undergone regeneration. Some residents call it “social cleansing”.
The Lisson Green Estate is more than just buildings. It’s a community with complex issues. Let’s delve into its story.
Dennis Moorhead has lived near Lisson Green Estate since 2009. He claims new projects are pushing locals out. His daughter even has to travel two hours a day for her child to attend school.
Westminster City Council says the Church Street development will increase affordable housing. The development will see 1120 new homes built. About 50 percent will go to council tenants.
Pam a resident says new builds are not her only worry. She feels renters live amidst gang-related crime. She pointed to a recent fatal stabbing site. She is sadly desensitized because of the gangs.
Fatin has lived on the Lisson Green Estate for 30 years. She says gang members often help her carry groceries. She feels safe as long as she avoids drugs.
In December two men were charged with attempted murder on Mallory Street. In January Lee Peacock was found guilty of murdering his girlfriend and an associate. These crimes happened near the Lisson Green Estate.
Mohamed Bonyad walks through Lisson Green Estate daily. He takes his child to the park. He feels he could be harassed by drug users. He said they are ruthless and might steal belongings.
One resident suggested there might be a brothel in the area. She regularly sees men coming and going. She has suffered sleepless nights because of shouting. Another resident says his flat is constantly flooded by a tenant above.
The Met Police said an assault took place on April 16. The police added that the Lisson Green Estate had a tragic murder linked to Serious Youth Violence in November 2022. Police are working with partners to address issues with ASB.
Circa 500 homes are under threat of potential demolition on Lisson Green estate. The estate sits beside the Regent’s Canal and Regent’s Park. It sits within a Housing Renewal zone in Westminster’s draft 2019-2040 Local Plan.
In 2021 two blocks on the Lisson Green estate were incorporated into the Church St regeneration plans. These blocks have been demolished.
After World War II further social housing was completed at the Lisson Green Estate in 1975.
MyLondon visited the Lisson Green Estate as part of their London365 project. They explore the biggest issues facing Londoners. They also celebrate every part of the city.
The story of Lisson Green Estate is complex. It involves regeneration crime and community. It is a microcosm of London’s challenges and resilience. As we leave consider the lives within these walls. Their stories shape the Lisson Green Estate.