en.Wedoany.com Reported - Architecture firm Gensler has been appointed to redesign the first phase of the 5,000-home Thameside West project on the eastern bank of the River Thames in London, a phase originally planned by Foster + Partners.

Dubai-based developer Arada acquired an 80% stake in the project from private developer Keystone for £2.5 billion last November, subsequently bringing in Gensler. The 47-acre site, located in the Royal Docks opposite the Greenwich Peninsula, is one of London's largest development plots, with a master plan first approved in 2020.

The project has faced multiple delays due to a slowing housing market and stricter fire safety regulations, and is being advanced by Arada in partnership with GLAP, a property company under the Greater London Authority. Arada now plans to resubmit plans for the first 1,500 homes this summer based on Gensler's design, encompassing six buildings and a large public park, with construction expected to begin in early 2028.

Arup and landscape design firm Planit have been engaged for the project, with construction handled by Arada's in-house contractor team. The entire development includes 35% affordable housing and plans for a new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) station, to be operational when the first residents move in.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said appointing Gensler, Arup, and Planit represents a key advancement of the developer's vision for the site. Tom Copley, London's Deputy Mayor for Housing, stated that joint efforts will deliver at least 5,000 new homes, 35% of which will be affordable. Forhad Hussain, Mayor of Newham, said the project will bring much-needed housing, new green spaces, and improved transport links.