Dubai developer plans £2.5billion new town in east London: 5,000 homes and public park could be built opposite the O2 on banks of River Thames

A Dubai-based property developer, co-owned by members of Middle Eastern royal families, has announced plans to construct a £2.5 billion new town in east London. The proposed development, named Thameside West, includes 5,000 homes and a public park, situated opposite the O2 on the banks of the River Thames. The project aims to transform the Royal Docks area, historically a hub for maritime trade, into a modern residential and commercial district. The initial phase of the development involves constructing six buildings and a public park on a 47-acre site. This location is part of London’s longest stretch of undeveloped riverfront and lies within one of Europe’s largest regeneration areas. The site is adjacent to the O2, a prominent cultural venue in North Greenwich, and offers access to the River Thames. The development is set to include nearly half of the site dedicated to green space, alongside 0.6 miles of waterfront. Approximately 35 percent of the total 5,000 homes will be designated as affordable housing. The developer, Arada, acquired an 80 percent stake in the project from London-based developer Keystone in November of the previous year, paying £225 million and committing to an additional £100 million investment. This acquisition marked one of the largest land deals in London in recent years. Once the planning application is approved, construction could begin as early as 2028. The project is being developed in collaboration with several renowned firms, including architecture firm Gensler, design consultancy Arup, and landscape architect Planit, with broader designs handled by Foster + Partners. Transport for London (TfL) is also involved in the project, collaborating with developers to establish a new Docklands Light Railway station. This station, named Thames Wharf, will be positioned midway between Canning Town and West Silvertown. Developers have pledged £9 million toward the construction of the station, which is intended to serve the community once the first residents move in. The station will enhance connectivity for the area, supporting the growth of the neighborhood. Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in delivering large-scale urban projects. He noted that the development must balance new housing with essential amenities and public infrastructure. “We remain committed to working with our partners,” he stated, “to ensure that this first phase and future phases are designed to meet modern living requirements over this multi-year project.” The project initially gained attention in 2019, focusing on the revitalization of the former Carlsberg brewery building in Silvertown, known as the Silver Building. However, the development encountered delays due to factors such as a slowdown in the housing market and updated fire safety regulations. Despite these challenges, the acquisition by Arada has reignited interest in the project. London’s Deputy Mayor for Housing, Tom Copley, expressed enthusiasm about the progress made with the first stage of the redevelopment. He described Thameside West as one of the key sites within the Royal Docks and praised the potential for creating a more sustainable and equitable London. Similarly, Newham Mayor Forhad Hussain welcomed the initiative, highlighting the opportunity to provide much-needed housing, enhanced green spaces, and improved transportation options for the borough. As Newham continues to expand, he stressed the significance of such regeneration efforts in shaping the region’s future.