Mayor of London Boris Johnson lists Barking’s Riverside development as a critical area for economic growth in his vision for the capital’s future.
The extension of the London Overground to Barking Riverside and the development of the area as “a leading centre for high-tech manufacturing and environmental technology” were set out by the Mayor for his vision of London in 2020.
It has been deemed a “considerable opportunity” by the mayor, who also outlined plans to electrify the Barking to Gospel Oak train line to boost growth.
Barking and Dagenham Council has also called for quick action to tap into the potential of the Riverside area, a mixed use urban development with more than 10,800 homes due to be built alongside a primary school and business facilities.
Phase 1 consisting of 1,400 homes is under construction.
Cameron Geddes, cabinet member for regeneration at Barking and Dagenham Council, said: “We are absolutely itching to get started on some of these large — but essential — projects which will open up economic growth here in Barking and Dagenham.
“The Mayor has shown he has the right ideas and is listening to our calls.
“Our population is already growing extremely fast because people are aspiring to live in Barking and Dagenham and we need the infrastructure to absorb that growth.”
The development, situated between the river Thames and the A13, is one of the largest brownfield sites in Europe at 443 acres and is owned by Bellway Homes.
Richard Burrows, managing director at Bellway Homes, said: “Barking Riverside is one of the most important sites for the future sustainability of London and has the potential of spearheading regeneration along the Thames Gateway.
“This area has the potential of offering affordable new housing for London’s workforce.”
The proposal to electrifying the Barking to Gospel Oak line prompted calls for more investment into Barking Station.
Councillor Mick McCarthy, cabinet member for transport, said: “More and more passengers each year are having to navigate facilities and an environment that is simply not up to scratch.
“Much more needs to be done to make Barking station a real destination of choice and an effective transport hub.”
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