Redbridge Council has announced plans to regenerate Ilford town centre, anticipating £1 billion worth of investment over the next six years.

As well as the housing zone, which promises more than 2,000 new homes, millions of pounds worth of investment will go into the area around Ilford station.

Transport for London (TfL) will provide £5 million to improve the area around Ilford, Seven Kings, Goodmayes and Chadwell Heath stations.

The council confirmed they will invest a further £2m into this from developers’ contributions.

A joint bid has been submitted with Newham Council to improve the air quality at the junction of the A406 North Circular and Romford Road, in Ilford.

The council also plans to provide new public event spaces and enhance the town’s listed buildings, in conjunction with the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Cllr Helen Coomb, cabinet member for economy, planning and regeneration said: “We want to deliver lasting change through ambitious and far-reaching regeneration to completely transform Ilford town centre.

“The plans would improve the town centre’s open spaces and make the shopping and leisure areas more vibrant, creating new jobs, supporting stronger businesses and strengthening the local economy. The future is very, very bright for Ilford.”

The council has promised that the developments will be supported additional school places and services for residents.

The plans will go to the Neighbourhoods and Communities Service Committee on September 2. To view the report click here.

For a full report and analysis see Thursday’s Recorder.