London politics
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21 hours agoLondon's Alleys: Park Place West, Paddington, W2
The passageway behind Edgware Road has historical significance, evolving from stables to a residential complex known as Park West.
Police are assessing a number of discarded items in London's Kensington Gardens after a video was shared online in which a group claimed to have targeted the nearby Embassy of Israel with drones carrying dangerous substances.
The Royal Parks has transformed the former brownfield site into a 8,000 sq metre paradise for flora and fauna, bringing about an estimated 184% increase in biodiverse wildlife habitat.
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These beautiful cherry trees are more than a visual delight - they represent a bond between nations, a gift to our local communities, and a lasting legacy. We know after our long winters, people rejoice seeing colour and blossom, and this sea of pink will be an awe-inspiring hit of horticultural wonder.
Greenwich Park has just introduced a new 'valley of blossom', planting 130 prunus 'sekiyama' cherry trees sourced straight from Japan. These new trees will tower above the park's existing cherry trees, growing to 12 metres high and 8m in spread.
Originally known as Sneads Court on John Rocque's map of London in 1746, the area was wider and more of a courtyard than an alley. Over time, it was renamed Hertford Place and later Yarmouth Mews as the neighborhood evolved into larger hotels and grand houses.
The Exchange is a community hub powered by North Paddington Foodbank who are the UK's first and only cash-first foodbank. Instead of offering food parcels, the foodbank gives out cash and vouchers instead, creating real routes out of crisis. This in turn helps foodbanks evolve into hubs of culture, care and community.
Despite its proximity to one of London's busiest tourist attractions, its back street location is remarkably quiet and peaceful. Leading off Stafford Place, it was originally, and unsurprisingly, called Stafford Mews, as it was built as stabling for houses on Buckingham Gate, facing the palace. Constructed around 1860, the stables were simple two-storey houses, built initially with stables at the ground and accommodation above.
The Elephant shopping centre will be home to a big M&S with a market-style food store, offering fresh produce, everyday essentials, and on-the-go meals for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.