Arada accelerates AED12 billion Thameside West, with key appointments for first phase of 5,000-home waterfront development in East London
News: 21 July 2026
- Gensler, Arup and Planit appointed to professional team for 1,500-home first stage
- Arada confirms delivery of new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) Station alongside first stage
Leading international master developer Arada announces details of the first phase of Thameside West, a major step forward for one of London’s largest regeneration opportunities, which is set to be transformed into a new, vibrant district of East London.
Spanning over 47 acres in London’s Royal Docks and with a Gross Development Value of AED12 billion, Thameside West represents the capital’s longest stretch of undeveloped riverfront which is situated opposite The O2 and next to City Hall. The site has the potential to deliver at least 5,000 new homes as secured in the existing planning permission, including 35% affordable homes with green spaces on half of the site and a kilometre of active waterfront. The project forms a key part of the long-term vision for the Royal Docks, one of Europe’s largest regeneration areas, being delivered through collaboration between public and private sector partners. Thameside West is being brought forward in partnership with the Greater London Authority (GLA), through its land and property company GLAP, reflecting a shared commitment to delivering new homes, public infrastructure and long-term economic growth across the Royal Docks.
The first stage of the project will comprise 1,500 homes across six buildings, as well as a significant new public park. The focus of this stage is the early delivery of much-needed homes and supporting infrastructure. The proposals have also undergone a comprehensive design refresh to ensure they meet the latest building safety standards and regulatory requirements.
In a trio of appointments, Arada has also selected global architecture firm, Gensler, global built environment consultancy Arup, and landscape architects at Planit to progress the first stage, underlining its commitment to bring forward a new neighbourhood at Thameside West and contribute to the long-term vision for the Royal Docks.
Arada is expected to submit a planning application for the first stage of the project over the summer, with work on site expected to begin by early 2028, subject to approval.
Arada is also heavily engaged in working with Transport for London (TfL) on a new DLR station, a major piece of public infrastructure, which it is intended will open in time for the arrival of the site’s first residents. The DLR is one of the UK’s busiest light rail routes with 97.8 million passenger journeys recorded during the year ended March 2025.[1] The wider area is well served by public transport, and a new station will offer enhanced accessibility for future Thameside West residents and nearby neighbours and businesses.
Construction of the first phase will be undertaken in-house by Arada London, leveraging the business’ vertically integrated model with local expertise at every stage of the development journey from planning, construction to marketing and asset management.
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said: “Following our investment in Thameside West in November 2025, we outlined our ambition to unlock this extensive riverside development to help alleviate the huge pressure on housing in the capital. Today’s announcement of our plans for the first stage alongside the appointment of Gensler, Arup and Planit, are major steps forward in our vision.
“Large-scale developments such as Thameside West require a huge amount of collaboration, ensuring that new housing is delivered alongside amenities and public infrastructure. We have worked closely with the Greater London Authority, GLAP and the Royal Docks team to bring forward plans for Thameside West, and our shared vision for the future of the Royal Docks will remain central to the successful delivery of the project.
“We remain committed to working with our partners to ensure that this first phase and future phases are designed to meet modern living requirements over this multi-year project.”
Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, said: “I am delighted that Arada is moving ahead with the first stage of redeveloping Thameside West – one of the key sites within the Royal Docks.
“Working together we will be able to deliver at least 5,000 new homes, 35 per cent of which will be affordable as we continue to return this part of the capital to its former glory and create a better, fairer, greener London for everyone.”
Mayor of Newham, Forhad Hussain said: “Thameside West is one of the most exciting regeneration opportunities in Newham, and I welcome this important milestone providing much-needed homes, stunning new green spaces and better transport for our borough.
“As Newham continues to grow, it is vital that regeneration delivers real benefits for local people through affordable housing, jobs, investment and better infrastructure. I look forward to working with Arada and partners to support Thameside West to become a thriving new neighbourhood that creates opportunities for Newham communities now and for generations to come.”
Duncan Swinhoe, Managing Principal, Gensler said: “Thameside West represents a once in a generation opportunity to reshape a significant stretch of London’s riverfront, and we’re proud to help bring this first phase to life. We’re excited to be working with Arada and GLAP. We’re committed to creating a resilient, people centred neighbourhood that sets a new benchmark for sustainable urban living in the capital.”
Gareth Fairweather, Director, Arup said: “Thameside West is an exceptional opportunity to shape a distinctive, resilient waterfront community that creates lasting value for residents and the wider Royal Docks.
“Arup is pleased to support the design and delivery of a new DLR station and help embed sustainable, accessible transport at the heart of the development. Guided by our commitment to sustainable development and to creating places that improve people’s lives, we look forward to working with Arada and the wider project team to help realise this ambition with imagination, rigour and care.”
Pete Swift, CEO, Planit said: “A park is arguably the ultimate display of the landscape architect’s art and civic duty. In Thameside West, Arada and their partners have placed their faith in us to design and deliver London’s next great waterfront park, following on from centuries of tradition, but mainly, away from the Thames. Not since Thames Barrier Park opening in 2000 has East London had a significant public green space on its banks. We do not take this responsibility lightly and look forward to working with Arada, GLAP and the communities of Newham to create a place for nature and people with views across our capital city.”
