More than 200 local residents and guests gathered at TwelveTrees Park on Saturday for its inaugural community street party - an afternoon of celebration, connection, and local pride at the heart of one of Newham’s most ambitious regeneration projects.
Running from midday to 5pm, the event brought together both new and long-standing residents to explore the neighbourhood’s open spaces and enjoy a vibrant mix of entertainment and activities. Designed to foster community spirit and celebrate the emerging identity of this former brownfield site, the street party marked a significant milestone in the development of TwelveTrees Park.
The day featured a lively programme of attractions for all ages. Children’s activities were delivered by Berkeley’s charity partners, including the grassroots organisation AAA, while football skills sessions were hosted by ProStar Youth—a Berkeley-sponsored team now home to many young residents. Guests enjoyed nostalgic 90s arcade games, table tennis, crazy golf, and a playful construction-themed photo zone.
Wellness and creativity were also on display, with mindful arts, massage and Pilates sessions, community Zumba, henna art, and balloon modelling. A dynamic performance by a Brazilian dance troupe added to the festive atmosphere, and the day culminated in a talent show featuring independent performers from across London.
The event was attended by a range of local leaders and stakeholders, including James Asser, MP for Beckton and West Ham; Unmesh Desai, GLA Assembly Member; Councillor Rita Chadha, Newham Council Cabinet Member for Transformation; Councillor Miraj Patel, Newham Council Deputy Cabinet Member for Environment; and Harry Lewis, Divisional Land and Development Director at Berkeley.
James Asser MP said: “It was a real pleasure to be part of the very first TwelveTrees Park Community Street Party and to see so many local residents out enjoying the sunshine. I was especially proud to introduce the talent show, which truly showcased the remarkable creativity and talent we have right here in the Borough.”
Harry Lewis, Divisional Land and Development Director at Berkeley Group, said: “We’re incredibly proud to see TwelveTrees Park come to life with such energy and community spirit. This event was a celebration of what’s possible when we work in partnership to create places that bring people together. I’d like to thank all our residents, neighbours, political leaders and partners for joining us and supporting this hugely important project. It is truly inspirational to see such a fantastic community taking shape.”
The street party reflects Berkeley’s long-term commitment to placemaking and inclusive regeneration. TwelveTrees Park will deliver more than 4,700 mixed-tenure homes, including 1,650 affordable homes, with a strong emphasis on social rented family housing for Newham residents.
The masterplan also includes a 1,000-pupil secondary school, a new entrance to West Ham Station, two pedestrian bridges, and a 12-acre Wi-Fi-enabled Park. A mix of new community, commercial, and retail spaces will help create over 8,000 construction jobs and more than 500 permanent jobs.
The project is also contributing £67 million to improve local infrastructure and services through a Section 106 agreement and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).
Find out more about Berkeley’s approach to brownfield regeneration.