Phase 1 of riverside regeneration at Beckton Gasworks, Newham gets unanimous approval
An important milestone in bringing forward the first phase of this strategic riverside regeneration, Beckton Gasworks Phase 1, delivered in partnership with St William (part of Berkeley Group), has received unanimous consent from the London Borough of Newham.
Once the largest gasworks in Europe and located within the Royal Docks and Beckton Riverside Opportunity Area, the Phase 1 Outline Planning Application is acatalyst for the wider regeneration of Beckton Riverside, proposing up to 2,900 new homes alongside 5,000 sqm of commercial and community space to create a vibrant, mixed-use neighbourhood on the River Thames.
The masterplan will open up and enhance access to the riverfront, creating new routes through Beckton that connect existing and future residents to local amenities, social infrastructure and green spaces. A network of new streets and public spaces will prioritise walking and cycling, anchored by Pier Park – a new 3-hectare riverside park that unlocks 800 metres of riverfront for Newham residents and extends the Thames Path with a continuous pedestrian and cycle route along the water’s edge.
Along the western boundary, Armada Way will be transformed into Armada Greenway, a biodiverse linear park providing a soft, landscaped buffer between new homes and the adjacent DLR Depot, while enhancing ecological value and local connectivity.
The proposals will build on the strengths of the established retail centre with proposals including mixed-uses such as shops, cafés, restaurants, community spaces, commercial floorspace and sports facilities that are envisaged to complement and enhance the local area.
Facilitated by JTP, a Community Planning Weekend was held in collaboration with the Beckton community, featuring consultation events, heritage guided tours as part of Newham Heritage Month, and a series of interactive workshops – including a dedicated young person’s session with pupils from Kingsford Community School. Over two days, attendees were invited to share their insights, identify key issues, and contribute ideas to help shape the emerging masterplan for Beckton Riverside through activities, discussions and hands-on planning exercises.
Emmet O’Sullivan, JTP Partner commented,
“Securing unanimous approval for Phase 1 of Beckton Riverside marks an exciting milestone in the transformation of Beckton Gasworks. This project will create a vibrant, connected, and sustainable riverside neighbourhood that balances new homes, community spaces, and green infrastructure. Working closely with St William and the local community, we have developed a masterplan that not only opens up access to the River Thames but also enhances local amenities, public spaces, and ecological value, setting the stage for the wider regeneration of Beckton and The Royal Docks.”