Hackney Council is in talks to buy the only bit of land it doesn’t own on the De Beauvoir Estate, clearing the path for future redevelopment.

Town hall chiefs want to buy a parade of shops and businesses opposite the Rose Lipman Community Centre off De Beauvoir Road and have been in “extensive discussion” with the owner.

It comes as they review options for the redevelopment of “under-utilised land” on the estate, with talks ongoing with locals over the possibility of building affordable homes on four sites.

A report set to go before the cabinet on Monday states: “This would be a significant investment and will provide the opportunity to consider medium to long term comprehensive redevelopment options for the wider site.”

Should a deal not be agreed the council says it could still go forward with its plans, leaving the owner to “either develop or sell its site”.