Tachbrook Estate celebrates 90th birthday with community event

The Tachbrook Estate in Pimlico marked its 90th birthday on Saturday 28 June with a vibrant community celebration that brought together residents past and present for a day of fun and festivities. 

Published: 04/07/2025

The "Party in the Pitch" featured a variety of activities for all the family including a free ice cream van, a magician, face painters, balloon artists, a bouncy castle, and live music.  
 
Guests included Cllr Paul Dimoldenberg, The Right Worshipful Lord Mayor of Westminster and the local MP Rachel Blake. Each spoke about the historical significance of the estate and its positive impact on the community. They were joined by senior representatives from Peabody, which owns and manages the estate, and Westminster Council.  
 
Speaking at the event, Cllr Paul Dimoldenberg said: “I’ve particularly enjoyed seeing all the photographs and memorabilia over the past 90 years which shows the history of the estate.” He added: "It’s all about community – bricks and mortar are obviously essential but when it comes down to it, it’s creating the sense of community that brings everybody together - creates an atmosphere and environment that makes people feel safe and secure.” 
 
The Tachbrook Estate, designed by architect F. Milton Harvey, has a rich history. It was saved from commercial development in the early 1930s by the Westminster Housing Association and officially opened by the Duke of Kent on 8 July 1935.  
 
The estate was notable for being the first flats for households on modest incomes in London to feature self-operative electric lifts. Over the years, it has hosted visits from prominent figures, including Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and Princess Margaret. 
 
Not-for-profit housing association Peabody bought the estate from the Westminster Housing Trust in 1972, helping to provide affordable homes for local people and ensuring Tachbrook’s continued development and improvement.  
 
Sydney Gray Willis, a resident of Tachbrook, highlighted the long history of the estate and previous celebrations held there: “My mum has fond memories of attending family parties here when she was a child.” He also thanked those who had organised the event: “I’d like to give a big shout out to the organisers of this event – my mum Emma, her cousin Adam, and Bonny and her team at Peabody.” 
 
Stephen Burns, Executive Director of Care and Support Housing and Inclusion at Peabody, said: “Tachbrook Estate has been home to generations of Londoners, and this anniversary is a great moment to reflect on its rich history and the strong sense of community here. It’s been fantastic to mark the occasion with residents, and we look forward to continuing to support the estate and everyone who lives here.” 
 
The celebration continued into the evening with a party in the club, led by the Tachbrook Management Committee and residents. The event was a resounding success, reflecting the enduring spirit of the Tachbrook community and its commitment to celebrating its heritage.