The St George’s redevelopment forms part of a wider strategy to improve public facilities while addressing the urgent need for affordable housing
Tower Hamlets Council is inviting local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to take part in a supplier engagement event to support the delivery of a landmark £60 million redevelopment project in Stepney Green. The scheme, centred around the regeneration of St George’s Leisure Centre, will deliver a modern leisure facility, council-owned housing, and public realm improvements—offering major opportunities for local contractors to contribute.
The SME supplier engagement day will take place on Tuesday 28 May, from 11am to 1pm at Tower Hamlets Council Town Hall. Local businesses interested in construction, landscaping, mechanical and electrical works, and other relevant trades are encouraged to attend. The event aims to provide early insight into the project pipeline, ahead of the main contractor procurement process scheduled for spring 2025.
The St George’s Leisure Centre redevelopment will include: A new, purpose-built leisure centre with wet and dry facilities Extensive landscape and public realm improvements to the adjoining park and surrounding area The main contractor for the scheme will be required to work closely with local businesses to ensure the borough’s economy benefits from the council’s investment. Cllr Musthak Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Enterprise, Skills and Growth, said the council is committed to ensuring the project brings lasting social and economic benefits to the community.
“We want to ensure that any contractor supporting the St George’s Leisure Centre redevelopment has a robust and ambitious approach to engaging with local SME suppliers,” said Cllr Ahmed.
“This engagement event offers a unique opportunity for local SMEs to meet the project team, learn about potential work packages, and understand how they can contribute to the successful delivery of this important scheme. We want Tower Hamlets’ businesses to benefit directly from developments in their borough.”
Tower Hamlets is home to over 18,000 businesses, the majority of which are small or micro-enterprises. The council actively supports business growth through a range of programmes including access to funding, mentoring, professional expertise, and one-on-one support. It also organises regular in-person and online networking and training events.
By promoting local supply chains for major public sector investments, the council aims to create jobs, strengthen business resilience, and keep economic value within the borough.
The St George’s redevelopment forms part of a wider strategy to improve public facilities while addressing the urgent need for affordable housing. The new leisure centre will replace the existing building, which is no longer fit for purpose, with a modern, energy-efficient facility designed to serve residents of all ages and abilities.
SMEs interested in attending the supplier engagement event can register online via the Tower Hamlets Council website or business newsletter. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Further details about the main construction tender will be published on the London Tenders Portal in early 2025.
