Gascoigne East – Phase 2

As part of Barking and Dagenham Council’s extensive redevelopment drive in east London, Willmott Dixon has been appointed by Be First, the authority’s regeneration company, to transform the east side of the 1960s-era Gascoigne estate into a modern, environmentally friendly community.

Through our regeneration skills and expertise, Willmott Dixon will not only be reshaping the area through construction works; operating various social and internal initiatives throughout the project, we will ensure tangible social returns on investment and establish a positive legacy that continues to pay dividends long after the work has been completed.

Having secured the second-phase works in March 2020, we have completed the demolition stage on the east side of the Gascoigne estate and commenced construction of the first section of the regenerative works known as C1, which comprises 52 homes and extensive infrastructure.

Alongside C1, construction has also begun on E2, which will see a further 159 residences built. This £56 million development will consist of four connected blocks intersected by a central courtyard.

The £79 million F1 and F2 sections, meanwhile, will provide an additional 223 new homes across five blocks, with a public space and accompanying infrastructure providing green social areas for residents to enjoy.

A key aspect of this development will be its sustainability and cycle-friendly credentials, with a targeted 40 percent reduction in CO₂ emissions from energy produced by the homes compared to what would be expected under building regulations. This is to be achieved through the incorporation of an array of rooftop photovoltaic cells and a connection to the district heating system. There are also plans for over 1,000 bicycle parking spaces to encourage the uptake of greener transportation.

The redevelopment of the Gascoigne estate is part of a wider strategy to create a sense of community and “place” in the area, with attractive tree-lined spaces and the 5,000-square-metre Gascoigne Square park, featuring public areas and striking designs in a mixture of traditional and modern styles to deliver a contemporary, spacious feel in a trendily rejuvenated area.

Joining us as partners for this phase of the Gascoigne redevelopment programme are our partners White Arkitekter, SVM Consulting Engineers and Civic Engineers. Working together to deliver this key London project.

As construction continues, so, too, does Willmott Dixon’s focus on providing local benefits beyond buildings. Working in partnership with local schools and colleges to secure a future pipeline of talent, we are committed to employing local people and providing opportunities for those wanting to work within the construction industry.

Together with the Department for Work and Pensions, we have also been holding virtual mentoring circles in the local borough, helping unemployed residents learn about effective personal branding, improve their interview skills and create professional CVs.