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1965 to 1979
the history of Leyton and Leytonstone
from . dot to … dots – with plenty of spaces
Local Centres
Much of continental western Europe had a pattern of sizeable towns which could offer
most services including administration. The geography of England adapted less happily
to higher personal income, a rapidly expanding retail sector and widespread ownership
of cars. Vigorous competition required a streamlined, more centralised distribution
of goods and services. On the east side of London, Stratford, Ilford, Barking and
Romford became regional shopping centres with branches of leading multiple retailers.
They already had railway stations at which semi-