International developer Arada has submitted a series of planning applications to the London Borough of Newham for Thameside West, its AED12 billion regeneration initiative in East London.

The 47-acre development situated in the Royal Docks carries the potential to build at least 5,000 homes. Arada’s initial phase proposes nearly 1,500 new properties across six distinct buildings. The first two structures will deliver 100% social rent units, offering three- and four-bedroom homes for families.

The masterplan focuses heavily on landscaping and public realm design to link the River Thames directly to the Royal Docks. Proposals feature a seven-acre central park, the planting of roughly 1,000 trees, adventure play trails and dedicated woodland areas. The site boundary incorporates a one-kilometre stretch of active riverfront and a pedestrian walk alongside Bell Lane. Ground-floor units around the park will host local amenities such as cafes and restaurants. To tailor the public spaces, a design panel of 20 local residents is participating in structured workshops with the developer. Architectural details will reference Silvertown’s industrial past using ropework motifs.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said: “Thameside West is a landscape-led masterplan, composed by nature, open to all and made for London. This is London’s next social gateway: a new riverfront neighbourhood inspired by the future, where local life meets global ambition once again and where homes, wellness, water, culture and community are connected by design.

“This is one of London’s most significant remaining riverfront regeneration opportunities – more than 5,000 homes, over one kilometre of river frontage and over six hectares of publicly accessible amenity. We have the ambition to create more than a new residential district. Thameside West is planned as a neighbourhood within the city, not an enclave at its edge: a new piece of East London where the quality of everyday London life comes first.”

Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, said: “Tackling London’s housing crisis is the Mayor’s top priority and Thameside West will help deliver the new homes Londoners deserve, including much needed social rent and family housing.

“By combining affordability, high-quality design and generous green spaces, Thameside West will transform a key brownfield site in the Royal Docks into a thriving new neighbourhood and help build a better, fairer London for everyone.”

Located opposite Canary Wharf and the Greenwich Peninsula, the scheme is being progressed alongside the Greater London Authority’s Royal Docks Team. Advisory firms on the project include Gensler, Arup and Planit. Arada is also coordinating with Transport for London on a proposed new DLR station intended to open as the initial residents move in.