Ilford is a large and bustling town within the North circular ring road and part of the metropolitan area of Greater London in the London borough of Redbridge. Its position as a thoroughfare on the London to Colchester Rd and its subsequent railway development aided its growth during the 19th and 20th century, and large residential neighbourhoods are now developed around the main commercial town centre. Ilford’s most recent expansion was due to the 2012 Olympics in nearby Stratford during which time it was frequented as a popular tourist destination for people attending the events. Ilford has a strong and active retail sector which provides employment and contributes greatly to the local economy, and the Exchange Shopping Centre located on Ilford High Road, has been a popular retail destination since it opened in 1991. Another pull for residents and visitors to the area is the Kenneth More Theatre which runs an annual pantomime season during December and January and is particularly popular with young families. The area is also set to see further development as a result of the Elizabeth line railway station, and several modern new builds have recently bought an influx of first time buyers to the area.