Second year in a row recognition for Gascoigne Estate Regeneration at the Pineapple Awards

Completed in mid-2024, West Phase 2 delivers 386 new homes and a 1,500 sqm playground, setting a new benchmark for equitable and sustainable urban living.  Developed by Be First, London Borough of Barking and Dagenham’s urban regeneration company, and designed by White Arkitekter, the project incorporates Scandinavian principles of wellbeing, climate resilience, and community-focused design.

The development of West Phase 2 includes five apartment blocks, ranging from 9 to 20 storeys, and three-storey townhouses arranged around courtyards, creating a vibrant and inclusive neighbourhood. Sixty percent of the homes are affordable rent, with a strong emphasis on larger family units, and 10% are wheelchair accessible. All homes are tenure blind, ensuring equality and cohesion within the community.

As part of the Gascoigne Estate regeneration, White Arkitekter developed the overarching placemaking strategy, shaping its transformation through the delivery of West Phase 1, East Phase 2, and most recently, West Phase 2 – the latest milestone in this ambitious project.

The placemaking strategy for West Phase 2 follows a landscape-led approach to promote walking, shared amenities and reinforce existing routes. The project acts as a gateway to Gascoigne West through a convergence of routes through and around the estate, linking it to Barking town centre – following a 15-minute neighbourhood concept – and meaning that Barking Station, the town hall, centre, library, four schools, the River Roding and Barking Creek are all within a short walk.

The place provides a green, biodiverse healthy landscape in an urban context. All home have a private outdoor amenity space, as well as access to shared courtyards. The new Community Hub at the heart of the development provides a community space for flexible use, which help foster a sense of belonging.

In addition to the new 1,500m² park, play has been integrated throughout the public realm through less formal play spaces and streets. This was co-designed with White Arkitekter’s Places for Girls research through co-design workshops with Year 8 girls from Greatfields School to identify young people’s needs.

The regeneration project has transformed the area, introducing modern, energy-efficient homes and improved public spaces, making it one of the greenest, most affordable neighbourhoods in London.

The 2024 award for Gascoigne East Phase 2 and this year’s shortlisting for West Phase 2 highlight the collaborative efforts of the project team, partners, and the local community. Together, they are redefining urban regeneration and establishing a new benchmark for sustainable living in Barking.

The winners will be announced at the Festival of Pineapples award event, which will take place in early April.

Linda Thiel
Director
+44 793 269 01 56
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