West Ham United are proud to announce the name of the Club’s flagship Foundation community hub in Beckton, The Foundry - as progress continues on the transformational project that will change thousands of lives in east London and beyond.
The redeveloped hub, which will become West Ham United Foundation’s new home, is near completion. Once complete, The Foundry will significantly increase the Club’s community footprint, enabling the Foundation to reach more than 50,000 people each year.
The hub will deliver over 35 programmes which will support individuals of all ages across education, employment, physical and mental health, social inclusion and a brand-new enterprise zone, inspiring future business leaders. The Foundry will also include health and wellbeing spaces, outdoor gym and a brand-new welcoming kitchen, profits from which will go towards providing free meals for those in need - ensuring the Club’s legacy continues to be felt far beyond matchdays.
The name pays tribute to the Club’s proud origins as Thames Ironworks FC, a team founded in 1895 by workers of the Thames Ironworks and Shipbuilding Company. The company, based in Canning Town, was one of the most important and innovative shipbuilders of the 19th century, forging vessels for the Royal Navy and pioneering engineering of its time. Just as those ironworkers built ships that travelled the world, they also laid the foundations for a football club rooted in hard work, unity, and community spirit.
That same spirit is now being reignited through The Foundry - a new purpose-built centre that will dramatically expand the scale, impact, and reach of West Ham United Foundation’s life-changing work across London and Essex.
West Ham United men’s first team Head Coach Graham Potter visited the site this week to see how the build is progressing.
He said: “The Foundry and the work of the Foundation is a vital part of West Ham United, it’s what makes the Club special. When you think about the history of West Ham, there has always been a family feel, and has always maintained that sense of community and togetherness. It is great to be here in what is a special place, where the Club is connecting with the community and that will provide a space for everyone to come and feel safe and be part of our community, which is amazing. We are looking forward to The Foundry opening and the difference it will make to the local community and beyond.”
West Ham United Foundation CEO Joseph Lyons, who was showing the Head Coach around the site, added: “I am more than delighted to announce the naming of the hub as The Foundry. It is deeply rooted in the history of West Ham and East London, and The Foundry represents the place where every opportunity begins.
“It will be a catalyst for transformation, delivering long-standing social impact - serving as an anchor for our programmes and initiatives, both locally and globally.
“It’s not just about football; it’s about inspiring better futures and making a meaningful difference for our communities. The Foundry will provide a social kitchen, a new business enterprise zone, education opportunities, employment paths and ultimately be a safe place where people can thrive.”
