Noele Gordon House – Newham’s ground-breaking affordable later living development welcomes first residents

The London Borough of Newham has officially opened Noele Gordon House (NGH), the borough’s first affordable later-living facility, launched by Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz.

Delivered by Populo Living, Newham’s wholly owned housing development company, the project represents a major milestone in the council’s commitment to address housing needs for older residents while freeing up under-occupied homes.

Built on the vacant site of a disused community centre, Noele Gordon House comprises 75 high-quality homes – 55 one- and 20 two-bedroom apartments, with the two-bedroom apartments offering space for carers or family to stay overnight. The homes are offered at London Affordable Rents for existing council tenants, or less if their current rent is lower. The ground floor includes a state-of-the-art NHS health centre, ensuring residents have easy access to vital services.

The official opening took place on the morning of April 4th 2025 with the ceremony performed by Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz. The gathering, in the main Noele Gordon House common room – where residents can meet and socialise – the event confirmed Noele’s name in a lasting tribute in East Ham, where she was born in 1919.

“Noele Gordon was a trail-blazer who smashed the glass ceiling. My role model, watching her on TV, anything she was on.  Noele exuded glamour and professionalism. When she died 40 years ago, I cried. I’ve still got the newspapers from her funeral. A lady, the likes of we’ll never see again.” – Maria Brabiner, Salford, one of Noele’s biggest fans

“Noele would be thrilled to be remembered in East Ham, where she grew up. She would especially be proud that her name is on a community complex for the over 55’s as she was always keen to make sure an older audience was catered for on TV.” – A Crossroads Fan Club spokesperson

Appointed by Populo Living, Mae Architects undertook the building’s design, embracing the Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation (HAPPI) principles to create a space that promotes well-being, independence and community for residents aged 55 and over.

The design prioritises social connectivity, combatting loneliness and promoting community with a communal residents’ lounge and a rooftop terrace. These spaces foster a sense of belonging among residents, many of whom are downsizing from larger council-managed homes, leaving behind family and friend networks. All flats benefit from balconies with views of either the surrounding streetscape or the inner terrace, giving residents access to both communal and private outdoor amenity space.

The project’s successful delivery underscores Populo Living’s expertise in managing complex housing initiatives that align with Newham’s broader housing strategy, as designed by Mae and constructed by main contractor Hill Group.

“Noele Gordon House is a landmark development for Newham, reflecting my administration’s unwavering commitment to providing affordable, high-quality housing tailored to the needs of older Newham residents. By prioritising community, accessibility, and sustainability, this scheme sets a new standard for later living accommodation in London.

“What’s more, Noele Gordon House exemplifies how local authorities and their partners can address the evolving housing needs of diverse populations. By delivering purpose-built, affordable homes for older residents, Newham is paving the way for smarter housing strategies that maximise community resources and promote intergenerational equity.” – Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz OBE

The transformation of the former Hartley Centre into Noele Gordon House is the culmination of a five-year process involving a multidisciplinary team contracted by Populo, made up of leading industry professionals.

Deborah Heenan, CEO of Populo Living:

“We’re proud of our role in delivering Noele Gordon House for Newham, on time and on budget and all affordable homes. Populo has now built several 100 homes for Newham residents with a pipeline of 1,000s more, and continues to work to create innovative solutions that address our national housing crisis. Noele Gordon House reflects this commitment to doing ‘housing’ better, bringing warm, high-quality and appropriate later living homes to the market.”

More information at Noele Gordon Archive  | ATV Today | Newham Council