Tower Hamlets Tower Block Proposal: 324 Homes Planned for Neptune Wharf Site
Housing developer McLaren is considering a significant new residential development at Neptune Wharf in Fish Island, Tower Hamlets, with documents submitted to the council revealing plans for over 300 homes. The proposal, detailed in a screening opinion request last month, outlines two buildings ranging from seven to ten storeys high on land bordered by Wansbeck Road, Monier Road, and Remus Road.
Development Details and Housing Mix
According to planning consultant Boyer, the scheme could deliver 324 new homes, comprising a mix of housing types. Of these, 44 units would be allocated for social rent, providing affordable housing options in the area. The remaining 280 homes are described as "co-living" studios, which resemble modern student accommodation with shared amenities and communal spaces.
The development would also include dedicated community spaces and amenity areas, as noted in the submitted documents. This approach aims to foster a sense of community among residents while offering versatile living arrangements suited to urban lifestyles.
Planning Process and Environmental Considerations
It is important to clarify that this submission is not a formal planning application. Instead, McLaren has requested a screening opinion from Tower Hamlets Council to determine whether an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) would be required if a full application were made. On February 2, council planning officers concluded that any future planning application for this site would not necessitate an EIA, streamlining the potential approval process.
Should planning permission be granted, Boyer indicates that construction could commence in late 2027 or early 2028, marking a potential timeline for the project's realisation.
Site History and Context
The Neptune Wharf site has a notable history, having been previously designated for a new primary school. However, in 2023, Tower Hamlets Council agreed that a school was no longer needed at this location due to declining pupil numbers across London. Many primary schools in the capital are currently facing challenges in filling their spaces, reflecting broader demographic shifts.
This change in land use highlights the adaptive nature of urban planning, as councils respond to evolving community needs. The proposed housing development represents a repurposing of the site to address pressing housing demands in Tower Hamlets, an area experiencing significant growth and regeneration.
The proposal underscores ongoing efforts to balance development with community benefits, including affordable housing and shared spaces, while navigating the complexities of the planning system.
