Ballymore has received planning consent from the London Borough of Newham for the redevelopment of its Thames Road site, located on the north bank of the River Thames to the east of Thames Barrier Park.
The approved scheme will deliver 1,685 new homes on the industrial brownfield site, also known as UNEX, including 173 homes for social rent. Designed by Howells, the development will also feature 359 co-living suites, a new primary school, over 13,500 sq m of light industrial and flexible workspace, a riverside park, and a range of ground-floor retail and community spaces.
The architectural design reflects the Royal Docks’ industrial heritage, incorporating a rich palette of brick tones and varied building types—from riverside mansion blocks and townhouses to contemporary co-living buildings—creating a distinctive and layered new neighbourhood.
John Mulryan, Group Managing Director at Ballymore, said: “Securing consent for Thames Road is a significant milestone and a strong endorsement of the ambition and care that has shaped these proposals. Our commitment to the Royal Docks spans decades, and this approval allows us to build on the success of Royal Wharf while continuing to respond thoughtfully to the area’s evolving character and needs.
“Royal Wharf has demonstrated what high-quality brownfield regeneration can achieve, becoming an international benchmark for new town delivery since its completion in 2020. With planning now in place for Thames Road, we are excited to move forward and prepare to begin construction next year.”
Ballymore has a long-standing track record in Newham, most recently delivering Royal Wharf and Riverscape, a 40-acre riverside neighbourhood with over 4,000 homes, a new primary school, public park, vibrant high street, and accessible riverside walkway connecting Lyle Park and Thames Barrier Park, including a Thames Clippers pier.
In addition, Ballymore submitted plans in 2024 for a sister site at Knights Road, currently awaiting determination. The Knights Road proposals, designed by Allies & Morrison, include 1,667 new homes and 4,000 sq m of light industrial and flexible workspace, located a short walk from West Silvertown DLR.
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