Ward of Cordwainer
Situated in the heart of the City, Cordwainer Ward powers world-class firms transforming today’s global financial markets
2
Historic churches
4
Elected members
c400
Registered voters
21 years
Alex Barr has been in Ward
A modern ward shaped by historic trade
The Ward of Cordwainer takes its name from the cordwainers, the skilled craftsmen who worked in fine leather, particularly the making of shoes and boots from new cordovan leather. The trade was centred in this part of the City from at least the twelfth century, and the Cordwainers' Company, one of the City's ancient livery companies, traces its origins to this neighbourhood.
Today the ward is bounded by some of the most historically significant streets in the Square Mile, including Cheapside, once the City's principal market street, Bread Street (after which I named our business), Poultry, and the many lanes and courts that radiate from Bow Lane.
The ward is home to a concentration of financial services firms and professional services businesses including Ghana Bank, Wilson James, Global Relay, Trading 212, Marriott Harrison, Shoosmiths, Elior, Gresham House and Chiba Bank plus many SMEs, two iconic City churches, plus a number of long standing residents, who value the central setting of the Ward.
The Cordwainer — the ward's iconic statue, paying homage to the trade that gave the ward its name
The Ward of Cordwainer
Cordwainer Ward — bounded by Cheapside to the north, Cannon Street to the south, Walbrook to the east and Bread Street to the west. mAP copyright alex baRR and may not be reproduced or used in any form without prior written permission.
Team based approach to support the ward
An Alderman's role is rooted in steadfast service to their ward, combining civic leadership with a close understanding of local needs. Good aldermen listen to and work with their elected ward colleagues, the Common Councillors, and together they engage proactively and reactively with businesses, institutions and residents to meet stakeholder needs.
This ranges from the working fabric of the ward - planning matters, licensing issues and waste collection - to more strategic activity such as driving commercial introductions. Aldermen and Common Councillors must be adaptable and energetic, but also able to anticipate emerging issues.
In Cordwainer, I am supported by an outstanding ward team: Sir Michael Snyder, Ward Deputy, Jamel Banda and Amy Horscroft.
Ward team in action at the 2025 Earthshot Prize
Raise a matter with your Alderman
If you live, work or have a business interest in the Ward of Cordwainer and wish to raise a matter with Alex Barr, please get in touch via the contact page.