Residents in Rayners Lane, Harrow have been celebrating the 20th anniversary of one of London’s most successful estate regeneration projects to date this week.
People gathered to share their stories of the estate over the years and walked through displays and photographs of Rayners Lane’s history.
Harrow Council handed over control of the estate twenty years ago, and since then, Rayners Lane has been given a complete overhaul.
Deputy Mayor for Harrow, Cllr Ramji Chauhan, visited the event and was on hand to cut the ceremonial cake, and was joined by other prominent local figures. A number of speeches were held at the event, with children performing a short performance to the delight of the guests.
One of the residents to share their experiences at the event was long-time customer Laura Duggan, who said: “I have been an involved customer in some way since 1997, both with the London Borough of Harrow and Home Group.
“Through the initiatives and their general ethos, Home Group actively look to employ and support their residents.
“I have just started as an Apprentice Housing Manager for the East Region and will gain a housing qualification paid for by Home Group, while gaining invaluable on the job training.
“They’ve gone out of their way to put their customers first.”
Richard Glaister, Regeneration Manager at Home Group, added: “The event went really well. It was a really nice atmosphere to engage with everyone who attended, and the feedback was very positive.
“I’m really proud of the work the team has achieved in Rayners Lane. We want it to continue, and we want to recognise that it has only been possible thanks to the support and openness of the community, council, and stakeholders.
“The estate has come so far since we took it over in 2002 and I’m excited to see what the future holds for Rayners Lane.”