Our residents are all we are

From the time Glenkerry House opened in 1979, the building and its residents have been an integral part of the Brownfield and Poplar area. From the beginning, Glenkerry has provided homes for people from Poplar and the surrounding neighbourhoods. A significant number of residents have come from Poplar and nearby areas such as Stepney and Bow; these include some of our most long-standing residents. Residents have included teachers, nurses, police officers, emergency service personnel, postal workers, charity workers, and others who do essential jobs but would not otherwise be able to afford a flat.

Glenkerry is unusual in that it is run completely by its leaseholders, who collectively form the Glenkerry Co-Operative Housing Association. A panel formed of the leaseholders themselves selects who will be put forward to buy a flat.

One of the requirements is that applicants should “be committed to the principle of co-operative housing”. Everyone who buys a flat here is expected to help with managing the block. For many people, that means serving on the management committee, doing jobs such as liaising with the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and local organisations such as Poplar HARCA; planning refurbishment and regular maintenance; and organising the buying and selling of flats.

Residents also enjoy socialising and keeping in touch at events such as our annual Christmas party and summer barbecue. The job of managing the block has become more complex over time, and it can be challenging – but many residents are proud to play their own active part in this unique community.