The incident on May 16, 1968 was a key moment in the history of architecture and saw a national review of housing design. Today, Newham Council is embarking on an ambitious, large-scale regeneration programme for the area.

Working with partners such as the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation, the redevelopment will help to improve life for people there by offering high quality mixed social and private housing.

Councillor Holland said: "It's important to applaud regeneration but also to remember the past. The people of Canning Town who died or were injured in the blast must be remembered. We must not forget the great shock and sadness when this happened.

"We are moving forward, and with the regeneration in Canning Town, we will see new quality homes and improved environment for all. For example, just a short walk away in Butchers Road, you can see construction work taking place where new, mixed tenure homes will soon be built."