About Us

SPLASH was founded in Easter 1991 by Alf Benning, who served as the Chair of the Birchfield Estate Tenants and Residents Association. Initially, the community faced numerous challenges, including the loss of nurseries and essential services, such as meals-on-wheels, which adversely affected the elderly population. The organization sought to address the ongoing development and gentrification impacting local housing and community spaces.A significant milestone occurred in March 1988 when a public meeting at Pope John House informed residents about the Limehouse Link, serving as a catalyst for further community organization. By 1999, SPLASH had begun efforts to transform wasteland between the Robin Hood blocks into the Millennium Green. This endeavor was led by various community leaders, including David Bratby and landscape architect Hugo Nowell, and involved extensive consultations with residents.As the Blackwall Reach project emerged in 2007, SPLASH continued to promote community interests and ensure green spaces remained available amidst the demolitions that followed. Their commitment to community development ultimately culminated in transformative initiatives aiding both youth and families across East London. Through ongoing collaboration and advocacy, SPLASH has remained a pillar of support in the local community.