Who we are

A team focussed on delivering Inclusive growth through production and implementation of plans for the Borough’s Transformation Areas helping support the modernisation of the local economy and delivery of homes and jobs. The team leads on delivery of turnkey schemes and inward investment activity.

We make it happen through:

  • Transformation Area delivery plans and strategies
  • Delivery of Turnkey schemes
  • Working with the private sector to unlock development opportunities (eg delivery of London’s largest film studios)
  • Inward investment activity
  • Raising awareness of, and celebrating, the Borough’s rich heritage

The Team

Interim Development Director

David Harley

Elizabeth Tobin

Georgia Beamish-White

Simone Panayi

Key Projects

Make It Barking

Be First facilitated conversion of Council offices into new multi-occupation workspace and amazing new night-time economy venue, Factory 15.

Barking Town Centre Heritage project

Be First runs a National Lottery Heritage Fund project restoring buildings and raising awareness of Barking’s interesting heritage.

Chequers Lane (Kerwin House)

A recent example of a Be First turnkey in this case working with Hollybrook.

Barking Town Centre Regeneration Strategy

A clear strategy for 2020-30 unlocking Barking’s full potential

Revitalising Barking Town Centre

 
Barking Town Centre is changing fast. There is superb accessibility provided by the District and Hammersmith & City tube lines, London Overground and c2c national rail routes serving Barking station. A regeneration strategy setting out a ten-year vision was adopted in October 2020 including a food focus linked to the City of London’s famous wholesale markets moving to Dagenham Dock. Barking has a fascinating history and strong sense of place. The River Roding was central to Barking’s formation and economy but has been neglected for decades. The riverside is being restored to prominence with new homes, commercial space, and an excellent public realm. The redevelopment of Vicarage Field Shopping Centre is a key investment opportunity and there are also opportunities with Be First with the transformation of the Gascoigne estate.
 
We have produced the Barking Town Centre Regeneration Strategy 2020-2030 on behalf of Barking and Dagenham Council. It's a bold 10-year vision for the town centre together with a delivery plan highlighting key opportunities for future improvements.  The strategy was approved by the Council’s Cabinet on 20 October 2020. It is the long-term recovery plan to build confidence in Barking’s future. Watch our video summary:
 

Discover More

Film Studios

Be First assembled the site, secured planning and sought film studios operator through international marketing.