On 13 May, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Robert Jenrick MP approved the development of the Whitechapel Bell Foundry into a boutique hotel.

Rushanara Ali MP said: 

"I share the disappointment today at the Secretary of State’s decision to approve the development of the Whitechapel Bell Foundry into a boutique hotel.

I joined over 25,000 people, many of whom live in my constituency, to campaign against this flawed proposal.

The Whitechapel Bell Foundry was one of the East End’s most treasured institutions, with a history stretching back to the 16th century. It was a source of pride to have Big Ben and America’s Liberty Bell made right here in Whitechapel.

This short-sighted decision destroys the hopes of it ever returning to a working foundry and is a tragic loss of a really important part of our local and national heritage.

I want to thank all of those who worked tirelessly to save this much-loved institution. Local people came together and fought to protect this important feature of East End life. Long may that spirit continue."