LDA Fires Starting Gun in Selection Process

Proposals from five prospective developers for the 50 acre (20 hectares) Silvertown Dock site in Newham are being considered by the London Development Agency (LDA).

The completed scheme is expected to provide a substantial number of affordable homes, live work accommodation, retail, office and leisure space, along with community facilities and a visitor attraction.

The development is intended to deliver a balanced and mixed community, offering a range of housing types and tenures including a significant element of accommodation for key workers.

The local landmark, but unlisted, Millennium Mills building will be restored and converted, and the nearby listed Silo D will also be refurbished. The whole site overlooks the neighbouring Thames Barrier Park opened by Mayor Ken Livingstone in December last year.

It is also adjacent to the proposed Pontoon Dock station on the planned Docklands Light Railway extension to the City Airport. The aim of the development is to bring a new heart to the Royal Docks as well as benefits to the local communities, particularly those in Silvertown, West Silvertown and North Woolwich.

The five developers short-listed by the LDA are: - A team led by Bellway Homes, including Barratt East London, Yoo and North West Estates; - Taylor Woodrow Capital Developments with Hutchison Whampoa Property; - The Greater Silvertown Consortium (comprising George Wimpey UK Ltd., Countryside Properties plc and Capital & Provident Ltd.); - St George plc; and - Silvertown Quays Ltd (a joint venture between KUD International LLC, London and Southern Ltd., and CGNU [Igloo Fund]).

LDA chief executive Michael Ward says: "This is one of London's major development sites. It is pivotal within the Royal Docks area. We are aiming to produce a balanced, well-designed mixed use scheme, and to include new, high-quality affordable housing."

Notes to Editors:
Knight Frank and EDAW Ltd. are advising the LDA on the proposals.

The LDA is the Regional Development Agency for London and one of the four functional bodies of the Greater London Authority. Established in July 2000, it is responsible for: - Furthering the economic development and regeneration of London - Promoting business efficiency, investment and competitiveness in London - Promoting employment in London - Enhancing and developing the skills of local people and - Contributing to sustainable development.