Key Points
- Plans approved for 45 new residential units across two buildings at Twickenham Riverside, with 50 per cent affordable housing.
- Ground floor will feature retail, office, and food and beverage units, including spaces suitable for restaurants.
- Construction to start in winter 2025, following demolition in autumn 2025, with completion expected by autumn 2027.
- Scheme includes enhanced public open spaces, river activities, and improved pedestrian access to the River Thames.
- Recent amendments to design, layout, and landscaping unanimously approved by Richmond Planning Committee.
Twickenham (West London News) January 13, 2026 – Plans to create flats above a Twickenham restaurant form part of a major riverside regeneration scheme approved by Richmond Council.
The development at Twickenham Riverside will deliver 45 homes in two new buildings bookending re-provided Diamond Jubilee Gardens, alongside ground-floor commercial spaces for shops, offices, and eateries.
Half of the residential units will be affordable, comprising 81 per cent rented homes and 19 per cent shared ownership, addressing local housing needs in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.
What is the Twickenham Riverside regeneration scheme?
The project targets a part-derelict site between Water Lane and Wharf Lane, stretching from King Street to the River Thames, excluding 3-33 King Street.
Originally approved by the council in December 2022, the scheme faced delays until a compulsory purchase order for the gardens was secured in 2023.
Key features include new open spaces with native trees, a children’s play area featuring a tree house and climbing wall, pétanque pitches, terraced lawns, tiered seating, and an event space by the river.
A widened Water Lane pedestrian footway will better connect the town to the river, while parking along the Embankment will be removed except for servicing Eel Pie Island, prioritising pedestrians and cyclists.
How will construction progress at the site?
Pre-construction activities began from June 2024, with demolition of existing buildings, including derelict pool structures, scheduled for autumn 2025.
The main contract signing is set for autumn 2025, followed by construction starting in winter 2025, leading to scheme completion in autumn 2027.
Recent amendments, unanimously backed by the Richmond Planning Committee, refine the design of the Water Lane and Wharf Lane buildings.
These include adjustments to photovoltaic panels, roof lights, glazing dimensions, raised ridge heights on Water Lane, lowered floor levels on Wharf Lane, and an expanded basement footprint.
As reported by London West, the changes also cover landscaping upgrades such as new tree planting, natural play equipment, improved drainage, and additional cycle parking spaces.
What community benefits does the development offer?
The scheme introduces a river activity zone with boat storage and a pontoon, alongside relocated and enlarged Diamond Jubilee Gardens at the centre.
Initial coordination efforts involve local community groups, including those on Eel Pie Island and nearby businesses, to ensure their input.
Discussions with local job centres aim to schedule sessions guiding residents towards employment with project companies, planned throughout the build.
How are local schools and residents being engaged?
Kier, involved in the project, is initiating a school engagement programme by contacting local schools and colleges to inform them about opportunities.
Commercial spaces at ground level, including food and beverage units, will revitalise the area after over 40 years of uncertainty, as noted in coverage of 2025 changes for Richmond borough.
Residential mix adjustments include one additional 2-bedroom/3-person unit and accessibility enhancements like step removal and bollards.
What are the next steps for Twickenham Riverside?
With amendments approved, focus shifts to demolition in late 2024 for derelict structures and main works ramping up next winter.
Sustainability measures address living conditions, waste management, and energy reduction, supporting broader council regeneration goals.
The development aligns with ongoing housing initiatives in Twickenham, boosting affordable homes and public realm improvements along the Thames.
Council updates confirm steady progress towards transforming the site into a vibrant residential and leisure hub by 2027.
