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The name of this EN3 area is derived from the Middle English word “lok” that, in this context, means river barrier. In 1355, the name was recorded as Northlok. In the 17th century, the area was known as The Locke. The current name is used starting with 1710. The urban development started in 1812 after the Royal Small Arms Factory was built. Enfield Island Village is a large estate in Enfield Lock. Before 1994, it was part of Epping Forest. In 1996, Fairview Homes bought this piece of land that was occupied by the Royal Small Arms Factory. The estate was developed between 1997 and 2003. In addition to residential buildings, a park and shopping area were built. Enfield Island Village featured in the BBC TV Panorama documentary.
The 2011 riots affected the Sony/PIAS distribution center in Enfield Lock. The building was destroyed by fire after the center was looted. It was rebuilt one year later. Prime Minister David Cameron attended the re-opening ceremony. The Enfield Lock railway station opened in 1855. The train company Greater Anglia operates this station. The railway station served the rifle factory and it was originally called Ordnance Factory. It adopted the name of this North London area after the factory closed. This facility is also a station for the London bus lines 121 and 491.
The original Enfield Lock on the River Lee Navigation was built in 1725. The old lock was rebuilt in 1922. Local educational facilities include four primary schools and one secondary school. This area is well-connected to several cycle networks such as the EuroVelo 2 “The Capitals Route” and Great Cambridge Road. Enfield Lock provides access to section 18 of the long-distance trail London LOOP. The footpath is accessed from the railway station. It connects with the Lea Valley Walk. Gunpowder Park is a local public area that features marshland and lakes.