Plans for 1,600-home tower scheme on River Thames

Howells architects has submitted a planning application for a Thames-side tower scheme in London, situated on a long-vacant brownfield site. 

Working with client Regal, Orchard Wharf will comprise 208 affordable homes and 1,365 student beds alongside a 7,524 sqm logistics wharf in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. 

Set between the Thames and the mouth of the River Lea, Howells said the new sustainable community will also serve as a “logistics hub for river-borne freight” operated by Thames Clippers Logistics, reinstating the area’s historic relationship with the waterway.  

“The buildings will reinforce the strong industrial character that has emerged across the Leamouth Peninsula over the last decade,” said Howells. 

Community space will be built at the ground floor, in addition to landscaping and pedestrian connections to the Thames path and East India Dock Basin. 

In total, 7,400 sqm of open space will be provided on site, including dwell spaces in the public realm and landscaped roof gardens. 

Planning permission is expected by early 2025 so construction can get underway. 

“Situated between London City Island and Trinity Buoy Wharf, our proposal continues the vibrant character of industrial brick buildings that has come to define the Leamouth neighbourhood over the last decade,” said William Poole, partner at Howells. 

“Alongside a new student community and affordable homes is a state-of-the-art wharf facility that will remove HGVs from London’s road network, promising a cleaner logistics solution for the capital.” 

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