Greenwich backs calls for investment to unlock its riverfront’s potential as Deputy Mayor Howard Dawber joins local leaders on a tour of the borough’s scenic Thames-side.
Greenwich has welcomed calls for greater investment and development along its scenic riverfront following a visit from the Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth.
Howard Dawber, the Deputy Mayor of London, joined the council leader, developers, tourism bosses, cultural leaders and councillors on a tour to explore the untapped potential of the borough’s iconic riverside.
Industry experts and development leaders reviewed regeneration plans for Thamesmead, Woolwich, Greenwich and the Peninsula, jointly calling for greater infrastructure and connectivity to fully unlock the area’s Thames-side potential.
Councillor Anthony Okereke, the Leader of Royal Greenwich, joined the calls alongside Councillor Majid Rahman, Cabinet Member for Planning and Estate Renewal.
Councillor Okereke said: “Royal Greenwich enjoys more of the Thames riverfront than any other London borough, and there’s a huge amount of enthusiasm and drive to really make the most of this distinctive asset. We know how important it is that we deliver new homes, create new communities and boost employment, and what better place to do that than by using the riverside?
“As part of Our Greenwich – the Council’s vision for the next four years – we want to ensure developments deliver positive change for new and existing communities. But we can’t unlock that growth without the right investment in infrastructure. With our partners, we will continue to press for the Docklands Light Railway to be extended to Thamesmead, which would allow for thousands of homes and jobs. We also want to review and improve the Thames Path to create a seamless link through our borough and beyond.”
Cllr Rahman added: “We are ambitious, and it won’t happen overnight, but we feel emboldened knowing that our key stakeholders are on the same page when it comes to improving our riverfront and maximising the potential we know it has. By ‘good growth’ we are talking about providing quality homes, connectivity north and south of the river, public health, communities, and jobs too – and with the right collaboration and investment, we will see a real transformation along the Thames.”
Barrie Kelly, Chief Executive of Visit Greenwich, said: “Tourism generates £1.8bn in the Royal Borough of Greenwich and supports 16,000 jobs. We believe that the river is not just key to further growth but is also part of the ‘Greenwich Experience.’
“With enhanced pier infrastructure, more cross-river opportunities, and a fully joined-up riverfront from Greenwich all the way to Thamesmead, Royal Greenwich will cement its place as the ‘must-see’ destination in London.”
Sean Collins, co-founder and CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, said: “We recognise the tremendous potential for further links along the Greenwich waterfront, creating a more integrated and vibrant network for communities, visitors, and businesses alike. The Thames is the lifeblood of our great capital, and it’s our ambition to continue to push for further progression along the river – we’re calling upon London’s maritime businesses and government bodies to collaborate and ensure a greener future for all.
“The new electric cross-river ferry, Orbit Clipper, is testament to our commitment to improving connectivity on the river. By enhancing access between these key areas, we are addressing the longstanding underconnectivity in the eastern part of the river and looking ahead.”
The Council’s transport scrutiny committee has been reviewing the Thames Path and will bring forward recommendations later this year.
The Royal Borough of Greenwich has previously called for the DLR to be extended to Thamesmead. This would allow for around 15,000 new homes alongside vibrant open spaces, shops, leisure, and cultural facilities, while also offering seamless connections across London.
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