Local heritage that reflects our communities

On Thursday 19 September 2024, we celebrated the launch of the revised and updated Waltham Forest Local Heritage List at Stafford Hall, E17 with the community, following a public call for new nominations that took place earlier this year.

The event also included a small photo exhibition highlighting some of the borough's different types of locally listed buildings. 

The revamped list marks the many characterful and historic buildings, sites, and features found across Waltham Forest. The updated list is now more inclusive and reflective of our residents and communities. 

We received over 140 Local Heritage List nominations from the public and of these, 93 new additions have been made to the list. 

Every area has seen at least one new addition and for the first time, the list includes examples of contemporary buildings, sites and features of high-quality design.

The list is unique to Waltham Forest, and includes buildings identified by you, local community groups, and the Council. It is a way to learn more about our shared heritage and spaces that makes Waltham Forest a special place to live, work and visit. 

Councillor Ahsan Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration said: “The updated Local Heritage List is a fantastic showcase of the diverse and characterful buildings and spaces our borough has to offer, recognising its rich heritage and storied history. I’d like to thank all residents who sent in their nominations to make our Local Heritage List truly reflective of Waltham Forest and encourage everyone to take look and explore the new additions.”

Being on the list does not limit how buildings are used or prevent changes to them, but where planning applications are submitted, any impact on a locally listed building would be considered as part of the planning assessment. 

The Local Heritage List document has also been redesigned to help bring the buildings to life with a structured layout that is easier to follow. This is part of ensuring we make heritage accessible for all and something everyone in the borough can appreciate and enjoy.

 Highlights from the new additions include:  

• Mornington Hall – a popular community theatre space at the heart of Chingford. 
• 19 Crealock Avenue – A distinctive looking residential property, originally built for the first manager of the Highams Park Estate.  
• Sutherland Road – Contemporary award-winning apartments near Blackhorse Road. 
• Kali Amman Hindu Temple – A distinctive looking temple on Forest Road. (pictured up top)
• Wood Street Market - A collection of popular independent shops, in a building that was originally a cinema. 
• Northcote Arms – A Victorian pub with lots of architectural decoration, recognised nationally for its historic interior.  
• 3 Marsh Lane – A historic building that records Lammas Day, a notable event in the history of Leyton. 
• Leytonstone and Wanstead Synagogue – An attractive synagogue with restored stained glass. 
• Mosaic at the Pastures Youth Centre – A contemporary piece of public art, designed and made by local young people and youth leaders.