Thames Gateway action plan approved

The Government has approved an action plan for East London aimed at rejuvenating key locations in the London Thames Gateway growth area.

Over the next three years the Government is expecting the strategy to deliver around 7,900 new jobs and 8,200 new homes.

The regeneration package will involve eight areas: Canning Town, Lea River Park, Olympic Arc, Bromley-by Bow, as well as the riverside areas of Barking Town, London Riverside Parklands, south Dagenham and Rainham Village.

The strategy, drawn up by the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation (LTGDC), will be underpinned by funding of around £237 million. The Department of Communities and Local Government will provide £120 million with the remainder predicted to come from the sale of LTGDC land assets.

The strategy involves community facilities, green spaces and a programme of infrastructure improvements designed to make sure that communities which are currently isolated from one another are interlinked via road improvements and the installation of new pathways and bridges.

Housing and planning minister Caroline Flint said: "Throughout the London Thames Gateway a lot has been achieved but now we need to see a gear change. Today's plan is part of a comprehensive programme which will bring a real acceleration in momentum to maximise the opportunities the gateway brings."

Lorraine Baldry, chair of LTGDC, said: "Our plan for the next three years is to drive forward schemes which will create a sense of place and belonging for local people and an environment that attracts new residents and businesses to settle."

Read the Communities and Local Government news release

Roger Milne

8 May 2008