Borough recognised as a key driver of London’s economic and housing growth
Be First, the urban regeneration arm of Barking and Dagenham Council, and the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham (LBBD) welcome the GLA’s new Growth Plan, which identifies the Borough as a key area for London’s future economic and housing growth.
The Plan highlights Barking and Dagenham’s role as a hub for sustainable development, with four of London’s fifteen key industrial innovation sites located in the Borough, Box Lane & Thames Road, London Sustainable Industries Park, Thames Freeport and UCL PEARL.
It is also identified for two of London’s strategically important housing-led developments: London Riverside, including Barking Riverside, which has 39,000 homes, and Beam Park, which has 5,000. London Riverside has the highest number of homes out of the 377,200 total, with nearby Royal Docks second at 36,000.
This acknowledgement identifies LBBD as a key region for industrial innovation and housing development in London, further highlighting its role in advancing the city’s long-term economic and social prosperity.
Caroline Harper, Interim Managing Director of Be First, said: “The GLA’s Growth Plan is a significant step forward for London, and we are committed to working closely with the Mayor, the GLA, and our stakeholders to help deliver the plans. Barking and Dagenham has a strong track record of delivering homes and employment space, and we welcome the opportunity to help shape London’s economic future. However, ensuring that the right infrastructure and investment match this growth will be critical.”
David Harley, Strategic Director of Inclusive Growth and Place, London Borough of Barking & Dagenham, added: “I’m happy to see that Barking and Dagenham is not only recognised as a place of opportunity but also a key part of London’s wider economic strategy. By working collaboratively with the GLA, developers, and investors, we can unlock the potential of our industrial sites and housing developments to create long-term benefits for both our residents and the wider London economy.”
Cllr Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Development, said: “This is an important moment for our Borough. The Growth Plan sets out a bold vision for London, and we are determined to ensure that Barking and Dagenham plays a leading role in making that vision a reality. Our focus will be on ensuring that local people benefit from new jobs, affordable homes, and the infrastructure investment needed to sustain this growth.”
With Be First’s expertise in regeneration and development, alongside strong partnerships with the GLA and key stakeholders, LBBD is ready to help deliver on the ambition of the Growth Plan while ensuring that growth is inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial to the local community.
