Thamesmead Waterfront
Disruptive Urbanism Founder Paula Hirst was appointed as Programme Director for a new vision and strategic masterplan framework for Thamesmead Waterfront, whilst at previous practice Prior + Partners (P+P). Overseeing a P+P/Arup led team commissioned by the Thamesmead Waterfront Joint Venture comprising Peabody as landowners, and Lendlease as development partners, P+P were appointed to develop a new vision, strategic masterplan framework and supporting strategies, for this strategically important 100 hectare site adjacent to the River Thames in South East London.
During the course of 2021, Paula co-ordinated the activities and outputs of the team of 12 different organisations across a variety of different disciplines including place branding and engagement specialists, culture, workspace and meanwhile use experts, infrastructure engineers and ecologists, as well as urban and landscape designers and architects to deliver against the project requirements on time and budget. Over an intense eight month period the project featured multiple stakeholder meetings, resident, business and stakeholder engagement, alongside a fortnightly internal and client workshop programme. This project culminated in the delivery of an inspiring and unique vision, and a strategic masterplan framework providing a model for post pandemic urban living, for a highly challenging and complex site. Supporting strategies included sustainable infrastructure, climate change, meanwhile use, culture and enterprise.