The Borough is undergoing an ambitious and far-reaching physical transformation scheduling major planning activity that is three times greater than the London average. The borough has over 50,000 new homes being planned by 2020 and 25 major regeneration projects underway, including the landmark developments of Stratford City, Silvertown Quays and Canning Town, as well as the upcoming Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.

Our challenge and responsibility, as a council and especially as a Planning Authority, is to ensure that Newham's built environment is of the highest calibre so that its population reaps the full benefits.

Due to evidence showing the economic, environmental, and social benefits of good design, Newham has placed design quality at the top of its agenda and we plan to become a borough championing the highest quality architecture and urban design. As part of this worthy initiative, Newham has formed a high profile, independent design review panel.

Some examples of innovative architecture and urban design in Newham (Roll over the images for more details):

The Newham Design Review Panel evaluates and provides professional design advice on key developments in the borough. While the panel will not have decision-making powers, it will serve as an advisory body helping the council to achieve the best built environment.

Over 30 reputable architects and other professionals in the built environment were selected for the panel from almost 100 applicants. They were chosen based on their design experience, critical ability and understanding of development pressures facing Newham. Peter Ahrends of ABK Architects will serve as the panel's chair.

The panel became fully operational in November 2007 and has since met monthly. At it's six month point, it had already reviewed 15 major schemes. It is felt that the panel has helped improve the design of most of those proposals.

For more information please contact

Jennifer Currier at 020 8430 3642, jennifer.currier@newham.gov.uk