The former docklands area, made redundant by changes in shipping that have concentrated on down-river Tilbury, has rightly been seen as an opportunity to revitalise the area. Crucial to whatever was done was the creation of a decent public transport system and the result is the Docklands Light Railway with its speed, comfort and good value. Views on the new Docklands in architectural terms may vary but it is beyond dispute that an exciting new area for living and working in has been created. The list of shops reads right across the board with old-established names like Austin Reed and Boots rubbing frontages with Gap Kids and Top Shop.There is a great selection of over fifty bars, cafes and restaurants catering for the sophisticated to the more earthy. A recuperative intake of fine wine at Corney and Barrow's might help stave off the worst effects of a visit to your stockbroker, accountant or bookmaker even, never mind your Bank. All the services are there, fear not.
But all of this would be of little value if it were not for the links provided by the Docklands Light Railway, with its system of driverless trains weaving ingeniously between ultra-modern architecture and smartly converted old warehouses, rather like a sedate roller coaster.
London has the gift for creating cities within a City, which is why it doesn't really need a Mayor. The new Docklands is a fine example of this ability.
Nearest Underground Stations: Canary Wharf and Canary Wharf DLR.