Thamesmead Waterfront in the running to be a new town
Thamesmead Waterfront is still in the running to become a new town, as the Government launches a public consultation on seven shortlisted locations.
Published: 23/03/2026
Thamesmead Waterfront, one of the most deliverable opportunities for housing and economic growth in the UK, is a step closer to being selected by the Government as one of the “next generation of new towns”.
The news comes as the Government launches its consultation on seven potential new town locations. The new towns programme, which looks at sites which can deliver more than 10,000 homes in each location, is part of the Government’s ambition to address the housing shortage across the country.
With potential for 15,000 homes, thousands of jobs and a revitalised town centre, the 100-hectare scheme is being masterplanned by a joint venture between Peabody and Lendlease. It is set to accelerate social and physical regeneration across the town and support the Government’s growth ambitions nationally.
The Thamesmead Waterfront joint venture is committed to creating a world-class, sustainable neighbourhood that celebrates its unique riverside setting. The scheme will prioritise low-carbon design, active travel and community facilities to ensure Thamesmead is a thriving destination for generations to come.
Thamesmead Waterfront will be served by an extension to the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), backed by Government. This new transport infrastructure will transform connectivity for an area that has long been underserved by public transport. Faster, more reliable journeys will pave the way for private investment, helping to deliver growth and opportunity for local communities and the wider area.
John Lewis, Executive Director of Sustainable Places at Peabody, said: “Thamesmead Waterfront has enormous potential to be a thriving new town for London. Creating 15,000 new homes, thousands of jobs, and outstanding outdoor spaces, it’s set to have a transformational impact – locally, regionally and nationally. We will respond fully to the consultation, while continuing our work with partners to plan for a sustainable, well-connected and distinctive riverside destination, with nature, culture and leisure at its heart.”
Ed Mayes, Ed Mayes, Executive Director of Development at Lendlease, said: “At Thamesmead Waterfront we’re in the process of unlocking one of the UK’s largest regeneration projects, which will deliver thousands of new homes, jobs and community spaces for local people. We welcome this announcement from Government and the designation of Thamesmead as a New Town. We look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure that Thamesmead Waterfront meets its full potential.”
Thamesmead Waterfront plays a significant role in Peabody’s wider plans to improve, grow and look after Thamesmead. Peabody is a long-term steward of Peabody: as the town’s main landholder since 2014, we are leading the long-term regeneration of the town. We have already carried out significant improvements across the town working alongside local people. This includes enhancing outdoor spaces, developing a diverse cultural programme, and delivering a wide range of projects to support local communities.