In 1866, Canning Town expanded eastward into Cherry Island, a small market garden partially encircled by marsh ditches. Around 1868, a speculator established Edwin Street, Bradley and Street and Thomas Street on this land, constructing numerous substandard cottages. These dwellings proved troublesome for the local board for many years.

Cherry Island was also frequented by Romani travellers. Interestingly, their tidy and well-organised camp stood in stark contrast to the poor conditions of the nearby cottages, offering an unexpected comparison between the two communities in this rapidly developing area.

Bradley Street, along with Cherry Island and its unusual name, was swept away in post-war redevelopment.


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