The building has also served as a relief centre for the local community on several occasions . On 19 January 1917 , a factory of the chemical firm Brunner , Mond & Co in Silvertown exploded , killing 69 people on the spot , seriously injuring 98 others , 4 of whom later died , with a further 1,000 people who sustained minor injuries . The Silvertown explosion caused massive destruction in the borough , around 70,000 homes were damaged , displacing a large number of residents . The public hall opened its doors and provided food , shelters , and clothes to those of who had lost their home . In February 1953 , the Thames flooded the area of Canning Town and Custom House , it 's known as North Sea Flood of 1953 . An estimated 1,500 homes were damaged ; 105 Barking Road once again provided temporary accommodation for those affected
North Sea Flood of 1953
North Sea flood of 1953
105 Barking Road