" He wanted " Expect key partnerships to launch the first phase of "Thamesside West" In East London, worth 12 billion dirhams

LONDON, July 21, 2017 (WAM) – The global development company, Arada, today revealed the details of the first phase of the “Thameside West” project, one of the largest urban renewal projects in London, which will transform into a new lively residential destination in the east of the British capital, specifically in the Royal Docks area in London, on an area of approximately two million square feet, with a total development value of 12 billion dirhams. It includes the longest undeveloped stretch of the riverfront in London and directly overlooks “The O2” Arena and the City Hall building. “City Hall”.

The site will accommodate at least 5,000 new homes, according to the existing planning permit, 35% of which will be allocated to affordable housing, with half of the site allocated to green spaces and a one-kilometre waterfront.

The project forms a pivotal pillar in the long-term vision to develop the Royal Docks area, one of the largest urban renewal areas in Europe, which is being developed in cooperation between partners from the public and private sectors.

Arada is implementing the Thamesside West project in partnership with the Greater London Authority (GLA) and its land and real estate arm, GLAP, as part of a shared commitment to providing new homes and public infrastructure and driving economic growth in the Royal Docks area in the long term.

Arada assigned work on the first phase to three international companies: Gensler Architecture, Arup Built Environment Consultants, and Planet Landscaping, as part of the company’s commitment to developing a new neighborhood in Thames West and supporting the long-term vision of the Royal Docks area.

Arada is expected to apply for planning approval for the first phase during the summer, with construction work to begin in early 2028 once the necessary approvals are obtained.

Arada is working closely with Transport for London (TfL) on the construction of a new Docklands Light Rail (DLR) station, which will form a major addition to public infrastructure and is planned to open in conjunction with the delivery of the first phase.

The Docklands Light Rail is one of the busiest light rail networks in the United Kingdom, recording approximately 97.8 million passenger trips during the year ending in March 2025. The surrounding area is served by an extensive public transport network, and the new station will add greater ease of access for future residents of Thames West and neighboring neighborhoods and businesses.

Arada London will undertake the implementation of the first phase work itself, based on a vertically integrated business model that brings together local expertise at every stage of development, from planning and construction to marketing and asset management.

Ahmed Al Khashibi, CEO of Arada Group, said: “Following our investment in the Thames West project in November 2025, we set a clear ambition to launch this large development on the banks of the river in order to contribute to relieving pressure on the housing sector in the capital. Our announcement today of the plans for the first phase and the appointment of Gensler, Arup and Planet comes as a fundamental step on this path.”

He added that projects of the size of “Thames West” require broad cooperation between all concerned parties, in which the process of developing new homes goes hand in hand with public facilities and infrastructure, stressing the work closely with the Greater London Authority, its land and real estate arm, and the Royal Docks team to push the project plans forward. Our shared vision for the future of the Royal Docks will remain a fundamental pillar of success, and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure that this stage and the next stages meet the requirements of modern life.

For his part, Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development, said: “If Arad moves forward with the first phase of the redevelopment of Thames West, one of the most prominent sites in the Royal Docks, we will together be able to deliver at least 5,000 new homes, 35% of which are affordable, as we revitalize this part of the capital and contribute to building a better London in which green spaces expand and opportunities are available to all.”

Farhad Hussein, Mayor of Newham, said that “Thameside West” is one of the most prominent urban regeneration opportunities in Newham, welcoming this important achievement that will provide more new homes, green spaces, and better means of transportation for the residents of the area.

He added that as Newham continues to grow, urban renewal must bring tangible benefits to residents by providing affordable housing, job opportunities, investment and improved infrastructure.

He expressed his aspiration to work with Arada and its partners to transform Thamesside West into a vibrant neighborhood that opens up opportunities for the people of Newham today and for generations to come.

For his part, Duncan Swinhoe, managing partner at Gensler, said that “Thameside West” provides a historic opportunity to reshape a wide stretch of the riverfront in London, expressing his aspiration to work with Arada and all stakeholders to design a neighborhood that sets a new standard for sustainable urban living in the capital, London.

Gareth Fairweather, Director at Arup, said: “Thameside West is an exceptional opportunity to build a distinctive and resilient waterfront community that creates lasting value for its residents and the entire Royal Docks area. Arup is participating in the design and implementation of the new Docklands Light Rail station, and contributing to establishing sustainable and accessible transportation solutions at the heart of this development, based on our commitment to sustainable development and building places that serve the community.”

Pete Swift, CEO of Planet, said: “Public parks are one of the most prominent and important contributions of landscape architecture to serving society. Arada and its partners have chosen us to design and implement the next major park on the riverfront in London, in continuation of the city’s ancient legacy in designing public parks.”

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