It was designed by Levitt Bernstein architects and built with funding from the National Lottery, and had been operated by the Stratford Arts Trust charity since 2011.

Organisations who have been based at the venue include East London Dance, Urban Development, Theatre Venture, and the Newham Youth and Community Education Service.

In 1998, Jon Harris was appointed to lead the building project and establish the operating company.

In 2005, Newham Sixth Form College (NewVIc), who had been a partner from the outset, took over the management and a ten-year lease for the venue, under the leadership of Clare Connor.

Artists who have performed their work at Stratford Circus include Andy Hamilton, Billy Bragg, John Hegley, Seun Kuti and 60x60.