Work has begun on the construction of the first homes at Barking Riverside, one of London's biggest regeneration schemes situated on the banks of the River Thames.

Barking Riverside Ltd, a joint venture between the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and Bellway Homes, is preparing serviced development plots for the first 350 homes. A start on the first two housing plots is underway by Bellway Essex and the London and Thames Gateway Development Corporation. The Rivergate Centre, which includes a primary school and church as well as community facilities, is also being built as part of this first phase.


Working closely with the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, Barking Riverside Ltd is spearheading the creation of a major extension to the borough based on strong environmental principles, with a high proportion of larger homes featuring three or more bedrooms. In July last year, Barking Riverside scooped a prestigious Housing Design Award for Buzzards Mouth Court, one of the first two phases which includes houses built specifically with families in mind.

David Lunts, London Director for the HCA said: "This scheme is massively important to the borough and our investment is maintaining delivery and ensuring the right mix of homes. The quality of the community facilities and housing, together with the carefully considered public realm and landscaping, will make Barking Riverside an exciting place to live, work and visit."

Cllr Mick McCarthy, Barking and Dagenham Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: "Things are really moving at Barking Riverside. It's great to see that building work is starting on the first houses. With the Rivergate Community Centre progressing well, 2011 promises to be an exciting year for the whole development."

(CD/GK)