London’s GLA starts search for new Albert Dock developer

The Greater London Authority has begun the search for a new development partner for the 12 ha (30 acres) Royal Albert Dock almost 11 years after then-mayor of London Boris Johnson welcomed ABP China (Holding) which had been selected to transform the area into “London’s third financial district”.

The project was expected to act as “a beacon for eastern investors” and bring tens of thousands of jobs but after only a small portion of the development was completed the GLA terminated its agreement with ABP in 2022. New development will sit alongside the completed first phase work, most of which has now been purchased by property company DPK.

The procurement of a new development partner is being led by the Royal Docks Team, which is a joint initiative by the Mayor of London and the Mayor of Newham, on behalf of the freeholder, GLA Land and Property. Planning and development consultancy Montagu Evans is advising the Royal Docks Team. The formal procurement process is expected to start this coming summer after an initial period of “market engagement”.

The Royal Albert Dock site, described by the GLA as “one of London’s most significant regeneration opportunities” has potential for 400,000 sq m of development and lies within London’s only enterprise zone.

Royal Albert Dock is located within the wider Royal Docks area and is one of seven major development sites being brought forward across 175 hectares of public land belonging to the GLA. Approximately £5 billion of investment is planned for the area over the next 20 years. The authority’s new Delivery Plan (2024-2029) sets out the vision and priorities for the Royal Docks during the next five years.

The GLA says possible uses for Royal Albert Dock could include high-value growth sectors such as green technology and data-driven or digital economy activities, life sciences, light-industrial and manufacturing, logistics, workspace as well as education or sport, leisure and cultural.

“Above all, this opportunity will be characterised by investment, innovation and enterprise, unlocking growth sectors through a resilient and diversified economic offer, supported by broader cultural, residential, education and leisure uses,” the authority said in a statement.

The site lies on the north side of the Royal Albert Dock, close to London City Airport, exhibition centre ExCel London, two Docklands Light Railway stations and a station of The Elizabeth Line.

“I am pleased that we are now looking for a new development partner to transform Royal Albert Dock, one of the key sites in the Royal Docks. This will play a major role in the capital’s continuing economic success and growth Eastwards,” London mayor Sadiq Khan commented.