Behind the Scenes with Ian Lamprell, Director of Development

06/05/2026

For this ‘Behind the Scenes’ feature we’re spending time with Ian Lamprell, who recently stepped into the role of Director of Development after 15 years at Poplar HARCA.

A Chartered Surveyor and member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Ian brings both strategic expertise and hands‑on experience to his new role. He works closely with teams across Development, Assets, Operations and Housing to keep regeneration moving, deliver new homes and make sure our plans turn into real, lasting change for residents.

From the desk to the site

At its core, Ian’s role is about making sure our biggest development and regeneration projects move from written plans to real homes. He balances direct responsibility for major housing schemes with his role on the Corporate Management team, where he helps shape long‑term plans, deliver targets and manage risk.

“I’m fortunate that alongside the strategic side of the role, I can still hold the reins on some of our large projects on site,” Ian says. “That balance between strategy and day‑to‑day delivery keeps my mind really busy, in a good way.”

Delivering homes that change lives

Years of working with teams across Housing and Development has given Ian a broader view of the sector as a whole – and what sets us apart.

“When you say you work for Poplar HARCA, people know the name,” he says. “We’re small to medium in size, but our positive reputation precedes us.”

For Ian, his motivation comes back to the impact that we have on our residents and the local area.

“Tower Hamlets has thousands of families on the waiting list,” he says. “Every single home we refurbish or create makes a difference to somebody’s life. A home is at the centre of everything.”

Change shouldn’t mean disruption

Regeneration might be the most visible part of Ian’s role, but it’s not the whole story.

Alongside new homes, he’s leading work to improve the buildings residents already live in – often while people are still in their homes.

“It’s complex work,” he explains. “You’re making changes whilst trying not to disrupt people’s lives too much – and that takes planning, trust and clear communication.”

Whether it’s a large‑scale regeneration scheme or major refurbishment, the goal is the same: homes that are safe, comfortable and treated with care.

People always come first

If there’s one value Ian holds onto, it’s being genuinely people‑centred.

“I’ve been here 15 years, so I’ve built lots of relationships – not just inside the organisation, but out in the community too,” he says. “Residents often will stop and talk to me.”

For Ian, those conversations matter and help him see the bigger picture.

“I’ve always got time for people,” Ian says. “Being Director of Development doesn’t change that – if a resident stops me in the street with an issue, I’ll take it back to the office and try to sort it. I’m very proud of that.”

Packed weekends and a love of Maureen’s Pie and Mash

When he’s not thinking about regeneration programmes, Ian keeps just as busy.

He volunteers as a Board and Committee Member at Peter Bedford Housing Association, supporting services for some of East London’s most vulnerable residents – a role he finds grounding and rewarding.

“They rely entirely on volunteers,” he explains. “So, it gives you a real sense of pride and purpose, knowing you’re helping people who really need support.”

At home, Ian is a dad to three teenage boys, who he jokes “organise my diary for me”, leaving very little spare time.

When a free Saturday does appear, Ian enjoys heading to his local racing circuit to watch whatever events are on.

And during the working day? Ian’s favourite lunch spot is Maureen’s Pie and Mash in Chrisp Street Market, where he treats himself to the occasional salt beef sandwich!

Want to learn more about our newly formed Leadership team? Find out more here.