Barking is the very doorstep of the Thames Gateway, and is being re-vitalised through a wide-ranging regeneration programme, including transformational urban design and a complete re-think of every aspect of community life: leisure, work, culture and living space to name just a few. Whole new neighbourhoods are being created, as well as a new Town Hall, a library, a new health centre, outdoor spaces and piazzas.

Barking town has everything to offer you, whether it's a stroll around the park, a late night at the recently transformed Broadway, lunch with friends or just a lazy day shopping - there's so much to choose from.

The town's market place has grown rapidly since the Council's Public Private Initiative in 2000, incorporating speciality food stalls as well as festival events throughout the year. And as the regeneration extends more high street names are likely to make an appearance, and more investment in culture and the arts is expected too.