Lord Richard Rogers is masterplanning the development of vast swathes of Barking and Dagenham with a programme to build 20,000 homes by 2017.
Rogers is acting in his capacity as chief adviser to the Greater London Authority, which retains him for two days a week. The proposals are central to the London Plans strategy of rebalancing the capital through building high-quality developments in the east.
The 15-year redevelopment of the area, which has the lowest land values in London, has been given added impetus by last weeks closure of a large part of the Ford factory in Dagenham.
The two main areas for residential development are Barking Reach and South Dagenham. The third plank of the redevelopment will be a business park, Beam Reach.
A GLA spokesman said: “Were talking about a fairly large contribution to Londons housing situation. I think we could be looking at 20,000 homes over the next 15 years.
“Creating two new towns is one way of looking at it. Forming a new part of London is another. Were looking at moderately high-density housing backed by public transport.”
Rogers is closely involved with the “Ambition for South Dagenham” project and will oversee the 80ha masterplan.
So far, four design teams, including Studio 334 and West Eight from the Netherlands, have been appointed to come up with their vision for south Dagenham by the end of April. Rogers will pick the best ideas prior to public consultation.
The London Development Agency, the sites owner, is expected to start clearing the site and remediating the land as soon as possible. Demolition should take place within the next six to 12 months. The first residential completions could be ready within 18 months.
Housebuilder Bellway Homes has already begun construction at Barking Reach, where it is expecting to build 6,000 homes.
Rogers is liaising closely with Bellway and Barking and Dagenham councils.
EGi News 01/03/02
