Regeneration news
Arada accelerates plans for 5,000-home Thameside West scheme
- Arada accelerates £2.5 billion Thameside West scheme, with key appointments for first phase of 5,000-home waterfront development
- Arada confirms delivery of new DLR Station alongside first stage
- Launch of the first stage comprising 1,500 Homes with Gensler, Arup and Planit appointed to professional team
Arada has announced details of the first phase of Thameside West, marking a significant milestone in the transformation of one of the Royal Docks' key regeneration sites.
Located on a 47-acre riverside site next to City Hall and opposite the O2, Thameside West is set to become a major new mixed-use neighbourhood for east London. With a development value of £2.5 billion, the project will bring new homes, public spaces and improved waterfront access to the area.
The existing planning permission allows for at least 5,000 new homes, including 35% affordable housing. Around half of the site will be dedicated to green and open spaces, alongside a kilometre-long active waterfront.
The first stage of the project will comprise 1,500 homes across six buildings, as well as a significant new public park. The focus of this stage is the early delivery of much-needed homes and supporting infrastructure. The proposals have also undergone a comprehensive design refresh to ensure they meet the latest building safety standards and regulatory requirements.
Thameside West forms a key part of the long-term vision for the Royal Docks, one of the Mayor of London’s largest and most ambitious regeneration programmes. The project is being brought forward by Arada in partnership with the Royal Docks Team, on behalf of GLA Land & Property Ltd (GLAP), combining public and private sector expertise to deliver new homes, enhanced public infrastructure and long-term economic growth.
I am delighted that Arada is moving ahead with the first stage of redeveloping Thameside West. Working together we will be able to deliver at least 5,000 new homes, 35 per cent of which will be affordable as we continue to return this part of the capital to its former glory.
Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development
Next steps
Arada has appointed a team of leading design and engineering specialists to help deliver the first phase of Thameside West. The appointments include global architecture firm Gensler, built environment consultancy Arup and landscape architects Planit, reflecting Arada's commitment to creating a high-quality new neighbourhood in the Royal Docks.
A planning application for the first phase is expected to be submitted this summer, with construction anticipated to begin in early 2028, subject to approval.
Alongside the development, Arada is working closely with Transport for London (TfL) to deliver a new DLR station. The station is expected to be operational by the time the first residents move in, providing improved connectivity for new and existing communities, local businesses and the wider area.
Construction of the first phase of Thameside West will be delivered by Arada London, drawing on the company's in-house expertise across planning, construction, marketing and long-term asset management to bring forward this major new scheme to the Royal Docks.
Thameside West is one of the most exciting regeneration opportunities in Newham, and I welcome this important milestone providing much-needed homes, stunning new green spaces and better transport for our borough.
Forhad Hussain, Mayor of Newham
Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, said: “I am delighted that Arada is moving ahead with the first stage of redeveloping Thameside West - one of the key sites within the Royal Docks.
“Working together we will be able to deliver at least 5,000 new homes, 35 per cent of which will be affordable as we continue to return this part of the capital to its former glory and create a better, fairer, greener London for everyone.”
Mayor of Newham, Forhad Hussain said: "Thameside West is one of the most exciting regeneration opportunities in Newham, and I welcome this important milestone providing much-needed homes, stunning new green spaces and better transport for our borough.
“As Newham continues to grow, it is vital that regeneration delivers real benefits for local people through affordable housing, jobs, investment and better infrastructure. I look forward to working with Arada and partners to support Thameside West to become a thriving new neighbourhood that creates opportunities for Newham communities now and for generations to come.”
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, commented: “Following our investment in Thameside West in November 2025, we outlined our ambition to unlock this extensive riverside development to help alleviate the huge pressure on housing in the capital. Today’s announcement of our plans for the first stage alongside the appointment of Gensler, Arup and Planit, are major steps forward in our vision.
“Large-scale developments such as Thameside West require a huge amount of collaboration, ensuring that new housing is delivered alongside amenities and public infrastructure. We have worked closely with the Greater London Authority, GLAP and the Royal Docks team to bring forward plans for Thameside West, and our shared vision for the future of the Royal Docks will remain central to the successful delivery of the project.
“We remain committed to working with our partners to ensure that this first phase and future phases are designed to meet modern living requirements over this multi-year project.”
Duncan Swinhoe, Managing Principal, Gensler said: “Thameside West represents a once in a generation opportunity to reshape a significant stretch of London’s riverfront, and we’re proud to help bring this first phase to life. We’re excited to be working with Arada and GLAP. We’re committed to creating a resilient, people centred neighbourhood that sets a new benchmark for sustainable urban living in the capital.”
Gareth Fairweather, Director, Arup said: “Thameside West is an exceptional opportunity to shape a distinctive, resilient waterfront community that creates lasting value for residents and the wider Royal Docks.
“Arup is pleased to support the design and delivery of a new DLR station and help embed sustainable, accessible transport at the heart of the development. Guided by our commitment to sustainable development and to creating places that improve people’s lives, we look forward to working with Arada and the wider project team to help realise this ambition with imagination, rigour and care.”
Pete Swift, CEO, Planit said: “A park is arguably the ultimate display of the landscape architect’s art and civic duty. In Thameside West, Arada and their partners have placed their faith in us to design and deliver London’s next great waterfront park, following on from centuries of tradition, but mainly, away from the Thames. Not since Thames Barrier Park opening in 2000 has East London had a significant public green space on its banks. We do not take this responsibility lightly and look forward to working with Arada, GLAP and the communities of Newham to create a place for nature and people with views across our capital city.”
