The seven hectare disused site was formerly home to Arsenal Football Club which played there until 1913. The scheme will be the first in a series of major developments brought forward by Peabody as part of the wider regeneration of Thamesmead, which is expected to deliver 20,000 new homes. The land at West Thamesmead is the largest site within the designated Abbey Wood, Thamesmead and Plumstead Housing Zone.
The West Thamesmead Gateway development will deliver over 1,500 homes and be an important catalyst to unlocking wider regeneration in the area - attracting future investment and setting the benchmark for further development.
The plans will deliver a new sustainable community and connect Thamesmead and Plumstead to the wider neighbourhoods, which include Royal Arsenal Riverside; another exemplar brownfield regeneration, delivered by Berkeley. The opening of Crossrail in 2018 and the planned DLR extension from Gallions Reach to North Thamesmead in 2026 will underpin the significant regeneration potential for this area.
The scheme will deliver a mix of homes including 35 per cent affordable homes, in addition to homes for private sale and a range of retail, commercial and community facilities. There will be a strong focus on sustainability and enhancing the provision of high quality green space in the area. Significant thought is being given to how this land will be transformed into one of the most dynamic new villages in London - benefiting both new and existing residents of Thamesmead, Plumstead and the wider area. The affordable homes will be delivered with the benefit of funding from the GLA through the Thamesmead Housing Zone Agreement.
Peabody and Berkeley Homes are now working closely to develop the masterplan principles, with the aim of going out to public consultation in the spring, ahead of a planning application. It is anticipated that works could begin in early 2019.
Brendan Sarsfield, Chief Executive of Peabody said: "We are delighted that Berkeley Homes share our vision for Thamesmead. The regeneration of West Thamesmead Gateway represents the perfect opportunity for place-making and will create a new, vibrant, sustainable community that delivers much needed high quality affordable housing and excellence in sustainable living".
Tony Pidgley CBE, Chairman of the Berkeley Group said: "The Berkeley team is incredibly excited to be working in a collaborative partnership with Peabody. The regeneration of West Thamesmead Gateway fits perfectly with Berkeley's expertise and represents the kind of place that London really needs right now. A sustainable community in every sense, that works for everyone and creates much-needed quality new homes. We share Peabody's vision for Thamesmead and have the expertise to help unlock this complex site and realise its potential."