A massive new arts quarter is emerging between some busy railway lines and the Waterworks River in east London. Some hefty British cultural and educational institutions including the V&A, the BBC and Sadler’s Wells are anchoring the development branded “East Bank”.

The total budget for the whole site, which includes residential elements, is around £1.1bn.

The idea behind East Bank grew out of a desire to ensure there was a lasting cultural “legacy” from the 2012 Olympics for the surrounding communities. While the intentions are commendable, a growing awareness of the disparities between London and the rest of the UK makes the underlying premise and execution look increasingly questionable.

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