Project details: Residential mixed use building
The proposed development at Stansfeld Road, Beckton, in the London Borough of Newham, is designed to transform a vacant, previously underutilized site into a vibrant residential community that aligns with Newham’s housing goals and sustainability objectives. Situated in a highly accessible area, the project site benefits from close proximity to key transport links such as the Docklands Light Railway and nearby bus routes, making it ideal for urban development.
This new proposal seeks to provide 130 thoughtfully designed residential units, enhanced by both public and private green spaces that encourage community interaction and recreational use. Central to the design are principles of sustainability, safety, and accessibility, reflecting a commitment to environmentally responsible construction and long-term benefits for residents and the surrounding area.
Aligned with London’s National Planning Policy Framework and local planning standards, this project emphasizes efficient land use, resource conservation, and biodiversity enhancement, while incorporating renewable energy solutions and crime-prevention features. Through its integration of green infrastructure and responsive urban design, this development aims to revitalize the area, create a sense of community, and contribute positively to Newham’s broader urban landscape.
Site and Existing
The project site covers approximately 0.49 hectares on Stansfeld Road in Beckton, London Borough of Newham. Located within a largely residential area, the site benefits from access to a robust network of public transport, including the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and nearby bus routes, which link the area to key destinations such as Canary Wharf, London City Airport, and Woolwich Arsenal. The surrounding landscape is defined by nearby green spaces, including Beckton Park to the east, as well as a mix of low-rise residential buildings and higher commercial buildings to the southeast. This mix offers a balanced urban backdrop conducive to residential development, with ample amenities and scenic greenery.
Site and Surrounding Area
The immediate vicinity is primarily residential, featuring two- to three-story family homes along Jake Russel Walk, which forms a natural border to the north. Nearby landmarks, such as Royal Albert Dock, add to the location’s accessibility and appeal. The area’s topography is generally flat, providing favorable conditions for building.
Existing Area and Use of the Site
Previously, the site hosted a 36-horse livery stable and a 500-square-meter sports and social club, both of which have since been demolished. Currently, the site sits vacant, with remnants of past structures and limited parking space. In addition to revitalizing a long-unused plot, the proposed development aims to address local demand for housing while enhancing the area’s visual appeal and community safety.
The New Proposal
The proposed development introduces a modern residential community consisting of 130 dwellings, designed to accommodate a variety of housing needs within a thoughtfully planned urban layout. The plan includes public and private green spaces, accessible car parking, dedicated cycle storage, and essential infrastructure to support a vibrant, connected neighbourhood.
Proposed Development and Design
The design respects the urban context, with careful consideration given to the site’s orientation, nearby buildings, and surrounding landscape. The layout minimizes overlooking and maintains privacy by respecting necessary distances from neighbouring structures, with green buffers like Jake Russel Walk providing additional natural screening. To complement adjacent structures, the buildings range from three to six stories, stepping down toward the north to preserve sunlight and prevent shading of neighbouring homes.
Layout, Use, and Appearance
The development’s layout strategically divides the site into three distinct buildings, creating an open and permeable structure that invites natural light and reduces the sense of enclosure. This approach promotes an inviting and spacious atmosphere within the community while also blending with the surrounding environment. The buildings’ facades will feature brickwork to match the local architectural style, ensuring a seamless integration with the existing residential character of the neighbourhood.
Shared green spaces on the rooftops are planned as amenity areas, providing residents with accessible outdoor areas for leisure and community gatherings. Solar panels and other energy-efficient technologies will be incorporated to reduce the development’s carbon footprint, aligning with sustainable building practices.
Residential Layout and Unit Types
The proposed master plan includes three buildings that collectively provide 130 flats, designed to meet a range of household needs. The unit types and distribution are as follows:
- 53 units of 1-bedroom flats for 2 people (40% of total units)
- 11 units of 2-bedroom flats for 3 people (9%)
- 52 units of 2-bedroom flats for 4 people (40%)
- 14 units of 3-bedroom flats for 5 people (11%)
All units are designed to be fully wheelchair-accessible, and 11 units are adaptable to accommodate residents with specific accessibility needs, ensuring flexibility and inclusivity in the living spaces.
Floor Layout and Residential Space
The development provides a total of 8,642 square meters of residential space, distributed across multiple floors. The breakdown of floor areas is as follows:
- Ground Floor: 1,545.56 sqm
- First Floor: 1,891.05 sqm
- Second Floor: 1,891.05 sqm
- Third Floor: 1,620.9 sqm
- Fourth Floor: 978.3 sqm
- Fifth Floor: 715.1 sqm
This multi-story configuration allows for efficient use of space, maximizing the floor area available for residential units. The building heights are carefully considered to respect the surrounding urban context, ensuring that the development harmonizes with nearby structures and preserves access to natural light.
Overall Design Intent
The proposed layout, use, and appearance of the development reflect a balanced approach that harmonizes aesthetic appeal with practical, community-oriented living. By incorporating adaptable and accessible design features alongside shared green spaces and sustainable energy solutions, the development fosters an inclusive and environmentally-conscious residential community that enhances both individual and collective quality of life
Sustainable Development Principles
With 130 new homes, the development supports Newham’s housing targets, providing essential residential space for the growing population. The project encourages community cohesion by integrating public green spaces and areas for social interaction. The site’s revitalization also strengthens the local economy, as the influx of new residents will increase demand for nearby services and amenities, while construction will generate employment and economic activity.
Environmental Role
The environmental sustainability of the development is achieved through green building practices, energy-efficient features, and a commitment to biodiversity. Each building includes rooftop gardens and green areas designed to support local wildlife, attract pollinators, and enhance natural aesthetics. Solar panels are incorporated to achieve a minimum 25% reduction in carbon emissions, while winter gardens on southern elevations help conserve energy in colder months.
Amenities and Resource Management
To support sustainable living, the project includes ample bicycle parking, limited car spaces, and an efficient waste disposal system. Water-saving fixtures, low-energy lighting, and cross-ventilated apartment layouts ensure responsible resource management. Through these measures, the development promotes a cleaner, greener, and socially vibrant urban environment.
Sustainable Urban Development at Stansfeld Road
The Stansfeld Road residential development integrates comprehensive sustainability practices to create a harmonious, eco-friendly community that supports both environmental and social goals. This approach includes key strategies focused on land re-use, energy conservation, and biodiversity enhancement to ensure a sustainable future for the residents of Beckton, London.
Sustainability Framework
The development adheres to a strong sustainability framework, prioritizing land re-use and resource conservation. This approach aims to minimize waste, reduce carbon footprints, and ensure efficient energy use across the entire project.
Re-use of Land and Maximizing Natural Systems
Transforming a vacant site into a vibrant residential community, the project maximizes the natural environment through passive design principles. This promotes energy efficiency, natural light utilization, and a reduction in overall energy consumption.
Resource Conservation
The development incorporates efficient energy, water, and material use, with features like low-energy lighting, water-saving fixtures, and sustainable building materials. These efforts support sustainable living while reducing the overall environmental impact.
Noise, Pollution, Flooding, and Microclimate Management
Effective measures, including green buffers and stormwater management systems, mitigate urban noise, pollution, and flooding. These strategies enhance residents’ quality of life and ensure a healthier living environment.
Biodiversity Conservation and Enhancement
The design includes rooftop gardens and thoughtfully planned landscaping, promoting local biodiversity and creating green spaces that support wildlife. These features help improve the ecological resilience of the surrounding area.
Conclusion: Beyond a new mixed use residential development
Stansfeld Road project not only revitalizes a long-vacant site but also sets a precedent for future developments by blending practicality with aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility. This new community will benefit residents and visitors alike, offering high-quality, sustainable living spaces that harmonize with the broader urban landscape while contributing to the economic and ecological resilience of the Newham area.
