Aram Masharqa Explores Park Royal's Industrial and Migrant History in ArtReview Writer's Residency
London-based Palestinian author Aram Masharqa has penned a three-part essay titled 'Routes Into Park Royal' as part of the Manufactory x ArtReview Writer's Residency. The piece examines the impact of transportation, industry, and migration on Park Royal, the largest industrial estate in the UK. Originally established for munitions during WWI, it later became home to the Guinness brewery, Renault's manufacturing facility, and McVitie's. Although the A40 offered growth opportunities, limited road access prompted factories to move. The area's character was shaped by Lebanese immigrants. Masharqa's essay features discussions on the Grand Union Canal, Park Royal Tube Station, and nighttime driving. A talk featuring Masharqa and others is scheduled for 12 October 2026 at Queensrollahouse.
Key facts
- Aram Masharqa wrote 'Routes Into Park Royal' for the inaugural Manufactory x ArtReview Writer's Residency.
- Park Royal is the largest existing industrial estate in the UK.
- Its first factories produced munitions for the First World War.
- The Guinness brewery, Renault's car plant and McVitie's biscuit production were among later industries; only McVitie's still operates.
- The A40 cuts directly through Park Royal, but narrow roads and alleyways could not sustain its traffic volume.
- Many Lebanese immigrants settled around Park Royal during the Lebanese Civil War.
- Plans for a new HS2 transport hub in nearby Old Oak Common earmark the estate for new development.
- A talk will be held on 12 October 2026 at Queensrollahouse, NW10 7LU, with doors and bar at 5pm and conversation at 6.30pm.
Entities
Artists
- Aram Masharqa
- Zarina Muhammad
- Hannah Pezzack
- Mazzy-Mae Green
- Fi Churchman
Institutions
- ArtReview
- Manufactory
- Guinness
- Renault
- McVitie's
- Goodies
- London's Kitchen
- Great Western Rail
- HS2
- Park Royal Design District
- Queensrollahouse
- Royal Agricultural Show
Locations
- Park Royal
- London
- United Kingdom
- Sudbury
- Old Oak Common
- North Acton
- Twyford Abbey Road
- Grand Union Canal
- Western Avenue
- East Amman
- Marka
- Jordan
- Lebanon