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Our community is still in shock following the events in Bow yesterday afternoon when a crane collapsed on a construction site, which tragically led to the death of a resident in a nearby house and injured four others. My thoughts are with the friends and family of the resident who died and those injured and with all those who have been affected. I would also like to express our thanks to the emergency services – and all those involved in the incident response, including volunteers – who responded to a challenging scene with typical bravery and determination.
Working with housing providers and other partners, we have been able to temporarily find accommodation for those who had to be evacuated as a result of this incident and we will continue to make sure they are supported while the area is made safe enough for them to return home. That may take some time.
The Metropolitan Police is now working with the Health and Safety Executive to investigate the incident and the council will support the investigation where needed. I want to reassure you that we have no reason to believe there are other sites at risk. It is nonetheless vital that all developers and construction companies stay alert and keep their procedures up to date at all times. We have written to all the major developers operating in Tower Hamlets to ask them to review their safety practices and inspections, particularly where they are using cranes or heavy lifting equipment.
Our response to Covid-19 continues despite lockdown restrictions being relaxed in the last week. It was heartening to see businesses in the borough trading again with social distancing safeguards for staff and customers.
Our famous street markets, including Columbia Road flower market, returned to business with a one-way system and staggered stalls to keep people at a safe distance. We hope residents continue to shop local and be patient, respecting the need for social distancing and face coverings in busy and enclosed areas. However, we know that there remains a risk of further outbreaks and we will not hesitate to act to keep local residents safe. The responsibility remains with each of us to do our part to keep each other safe.
Meanwhile, the NHS Test and Trace programme continues to run, offering tests to anyone with symptoms so they can protect themselves, their friends and family. There are mobile testing units operating in the borough in the coming weeks, allowing residents to take up the offer of free testing locally. Please remember, if you or a member of your household have Covid-19 symptoms, book a test online or call 119 immediately. You must also self-isolate straight away, along with members of your household.
Despite the changeable recent weather, our parks team have been busy checking our open spaces are safe. Full inspections of play and outdoor gym equipment are due to happen at the end of July so please bear with us. Equipment must be safe before we can reopen facilities.
Stay safe,
Mayor John Biggs
Book a Covid-19 test if you have symptoms
Mobile NHS Test and Trace centres are operating in the borough in the coming weeks so if you have symptoms or have had contact with someone who has, call 119 or book an appointment online immediately.
It is an essential feature of efforts to keep Tower Hamlets safe and continuing to drive down the rates of infection and transmission. Make sure that you, your family and your friends have the correct information on how it works.
 Shop safe, shop local
If you live in the area, please stop by and support your local businesses. But if you live further away, please consider visiting shops and markets closer to home to avoid unsafe overcrowding. We’ll be delighted to welcome you back in the future, but for now we need to put safety first.
Many shops have introduced new layouts designed to help make social distancing easier and slow the spread of Covid-19. Your understanding as they work through the challenges of this period is very much appreciated.
The threat of the virus is still here so please keep a safe distance from others while walking the aisles. We should all also remember to wear a face covering in busy areas and on public transport. Try to shop local when you can and remember to wash your hands regularly to protect yourself, your loved ones and your neighbours.
 Online summer schools
Young people can take advantage of free courses to improve their tech, design and creative skills this summer.
Open to 12 - 17 year olds, there are a range of interactive classes delivered by organisations such as the BBC, University College London, Studio Wayne McGregor, The Yard Theatre and many more.
 Discussion for Somali parents and carers on Covid-19
The parental engagement team invites Somali speaking parents and carers to discuss Covid-19 on Monday 13 July, 1.30pm - 3pm.
This online discussion will be led by Manal Adam, Public Health Officer, who will explain what Covid-19 is and how it is transmitted, how to reduce the risk of transmission, how you can get tested, when you may need to use personal protective equipment and more.
 Have your say on safer streets in Bow
Did you know there are more than 33,000 motor vehicle journeys in Bow on an average day and almost half of those are just cutting through the area?
We want to improve walking routes around the area with wider decluttered pavements, improved street lighting, cycle parking, greenery and school streets where roads will be closed to motor vehicles at drop-off and pick-up times.
Check out proposals for safer streets, cleaner air and easier local journeys and take part in our survey to help shape the future of Bow.
Coronavirus: useful links
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