Earlier this month, the Mayor of London said the Royal Docks Team would be launching a competition to find a master developer for the Royal Albert Docks. The goal is to select someone with significant experience of mixed use development on this kind of large scale site (12 hectares). It will be their job to create a place-led masterplan, design the infrastructure, get planning permission, and secure funding. We want to have a closer look at the potential of the site here, then if you need help from top architects in London, you can speak to us.

History

At one point in time, the Royal Docks (Victoria, Albert, and George V), were the most successful in London. They had some major advantages, including the size and infrastructure. At the height of their success they were a major centre for importing food and other products.

Royal Victoria Dock was the first to open in 1855 (although large parts were ready as early as 1850). Royal Albert Dock was the first extension, opening in 1880. King George V Dock was the final one to open in 1921, delayed by the First World War. They were an economic powerhouse for decades, but containerisation was damaging. They declined gradually beginning in the 60s, closing in 1981.

Redevelopment

There have been different plans to redevelop the Royal Docks for decades. Progress has been slower than similar projects though because they are further outside the centre of London. There has been lots of work, including infrastructure, housing, and major developments like ExCeL and a university campus. As top architects in London with a big passion for the city, it has been great to see some of the fantastic designs.

The proposed redevelopment of Royal Albert Dock has been particularly tricky. There was some work at the end of the 20th century, including building London City Airport. There was more work in the 2010s, with a massive redevelopment aiming to deliver a new business centre. Some construction was complete, but critics say it is half finished and mostly empty.

We’ve now had the positive news from the Mayor of London that this new competition will take place. It comes three years after GLA took the site back following years of stalled development and problems with the developers. Incredibly, the expectation is the new project could create a £3bn mixed use neighbourhood, including homes, community space, amenities, and a business hub with the potential to create thousands of jobs.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan and Mayor of Newham Rokhsana Fiaz had positive comments about the new competition and future redevelopment. It could be fantastic for London, helping growth and future prosperity. Crucially, Mayor Fiaz wants to ensure the work will help create a “sustainable, inclusive, and fairer Newham”.

There is currently no deadline for the competition. However, the expectation is selection will be complete by the end of the year. Before then, there are likely to be different phases, including engagement. The goal will be to ensure the successful developer will be able to deliver the project. It is crucial to check this because of the current conditions in the construction industry and the risk of projects stalling.

Work with some of the best architects in London

Large scale redevelopments like the Royal Docks can have a huge, positive impact, especially in cities like London. We’ve seen how good they can be with successes like King’s Cross. However, we’ve equally seen the challenges with projects like Earl’s Court. It will be fantastic to see how Royal Albert Dock progresses in the future and the area become a new vibrant place to live and work.

If you’re thinking about a project, Coffey Architects has one of the most creative teams in London. We take inspiration from the city and the pursuit of innovation, while also respecting the rich history and heritage. You can work with us to design your dream home, lovely housing, commercial space, community space, and much more.

So, get in touch if you want to learn more about us. We also recommend you have a look at our portfolio to see some of our projects; we’ve included details and wonderful images.