Royal Docks Waterways will be home to London’s first floating park.
If you’ve ever wondered what London was missing, this could be one of the answers. Exciting plans are underway to transform Victoria Dock West in London. The area will welcome a lido, new homes, and the capital’s first large-scale floating park. Here are the proposals from Royal Docks Waterways, with construction expected to commence in 2030.
The vision places public swimming at the heart of the project, alongside a wellness centre complete with a sauna and spa. The floating park promises art installations, cultural events, and green spaces. Additionally, the 12-hectare development will increase Newham’s publicly accessible open space.
Residents can expect wooden walkways framed by flowers, spaces to relax on benches, and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Open-water swimming will remain a key feature, while higher-intensity activities such as wakeboarding may be moved to alternative sites, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
The project aligns with the Mayor of London’s forthcoming Clean and Healthy Waterways strategy, a 10-year plan to improve water quality, expand public access, and restore waterways as thriving environmental assets.
Scott Derben, Managing Director of Royal Docks Waterways, explained: “This vision represents the biggest change in the management and development of the Royal Docks since they closed to commercial shipping in 1981. Now, 45 years later, our goal is that the docks that once fed London will nurture its inhabitants.”
Mayor of Newham Rokhsana Fiaz added: "The development of Royal Victoria Dock West is reshaping the space as a leisure and wellness destination, making the most of the waterway and giving residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy a new community right on the water."
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GO: Visit www.royaldocks.london for more information.