Sadiq Khan has welcomed plans to build 20,000 homes on greenfield land in east London as a blueprint for the future of the UK's “new towns”.
The Barking Riverside project, which has already built more than 2,700 homes, would occupy a 443-acre brownfield site formerly home to Barking Power Station.
An initial planning application submitted to Barking and Dagenham Council by the Mayor of London and housing association L&Q aims to build housing, shops, schools and parks, potentially giving rise to a community of 50,000 on the north bank of the Thames.
“Barking Riverside is a shining example of a new town in London, a pioneering partnership delivering thousands of new homes for Londoners,” Khan said.
“This is an inspiring model for solving the housing crisis, with new public transport links, schools, green spaces and the city centre, making it a blueprint for the next generation of English cities.
“I am determined to do everything I can to continue to support house building across London as part of my plan to build a fairer and more prosperous city for all Londoners.
There are high hopes that the Barking Riverside project will create a thriving new community of up to 50,000 people on the banks of the Thames
Landscape plays a significant role in the Barking Riverside proposal, with architects keen to retain the 'wild character of the shore'
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan described the project as “a blueprint for the next generation of English cities”
To date, over £400 million has been invested in the project, 2,700 homes have been built and planning permission has been granted for up to 10,800.
Under the new plans, this would almost double, with maximum use made of improved transport links, including a land station and pier.
“We want to deliver much more and the investment to date is underpinning the significant growth now proposed,” said Matthew Carpen, managing director of Barking Riverside Limited.
“We look forward to delivering our new 20,000-home masterplan with the amenities and services needed to support and attract a vibrant and growing population.”
More than a third of the 13,046 new homes are affordable housing, offered at at least 20% below the market price.
The development application includes plans for two new parks – Ripple Park, approximately 50 acres, and River Park, 19 acres – as well as two primary schools and improved walking and cycling routes.
“As well as meeting demand for housing, much of which is affordable, the new development plan aims to maximize public benefits – both for the growing community here and for East London as a whole,” Carpen added.
Architects' plans for Barking Riverside include a central boulevard and bus lane inspired by Helsinki's Esplanade, one of the most admired urban spaces in Europe
Fiona Fletcher-Smith, chief executive of housing association L&Q, believes the creation of new homes and infrastructure will create an “exciting new neighborhood”
Barking Riverside already has five schools, several kindergartens and various play areas and shops.
Fiona Fletcher-Smith L&Q chief executive said: “The UK is facing a deepening housing and affordability crisis. This needs to change and projects like Barking Riverside are part of the solution.
“We believe Barking Riverside has the potential to be a blueprint for the development of brownfield sites across the country. None of this would be possible without partnership, from L&Q and the Mayor of London to the many others who have made this place a success.
“The delivery of the proposed new homes and infrastructure will be a great next step for this exciting new district.”
