Already it has artists and creative industries, plus BioCity, a centre for research based bio-medical companies that is backed by both universities. Young professionals are colonising the area, moving east from the lofts of the Lace Market. More student housing, too, is being built, with bars, food stores and cafes springing up alongside. Specialist shops seeking a young market are starting to spread down the hill from Hockley.

The Eastside also has the large sites, many owned by the City Council, for flagship schemes that could change the course of the area, attracting inward investors or providing the space for relocating public sector organisations. Further growth of the bio-medical sector is expected, too.

The northern section of the Eastside is changing incrementally, as obsolete industrial buildings are turned into office space or student accommodation. On The Greater Island site, to the south of the area, planning permission has been granted for a £900 million development scheme that will dramatically alter the south-east of the city, providing a prestige environment for offices and housing. Plans include a canal basin where pleasure craft can moor next to bars and restaurants, and walkers and cyclists can converge. The tow path would connect this new watering hole to the existing canalside pubs and restaurants of Castle Wharf. Further opportunities are available in this area.