A revolution by the river

Consultation has started on a new industrial hub at the heart of the River Road industrial estate in Barking.

Dubbed industria, the striking-looking building boasts top quality, flexible industrial workspaces in a modern structure that sets pioneering new standards for sustainability.

And, the experience for visitors and neighbours will be enhanced by a green wall, lively shopfronts and a new local café.

Lily Kwong, project manager for the council’s regeneration agency, Be First, explains: “Industria is a ground-breaking business development, designed to allow a large range of businesses to operate flexibly and efficiently on a compact, single site.

“It will provide modern business facilities with top quality sustainability credentials, to ambitious industrial enterprises of all shapes and sizes.

“Crucially, it will allow businesses to expand and grow in the borough, meaning more jobs for local residents.”

The building is proposed at the corner of Long Reach Road and Creek Road, and will consist of a three and a four story building, arranged each side of a courtyard. It will offer flexible light industrial units from 1,700-5,200 sqft (160-475 sqm) and flatted factory units from 140-2,500 sqft (15-230 sqm). The rents are expected to be in the region of £18-20 per sqft.

Access to the units will be via a vehicle ramp or goods lifts, with vehicle access across three floors. And, tenants will be able to take advantage of on-site parking and a business centre, with meeting rooms and a staffed reception.

The appearance of the building will be enhanced by fully glazed shop units and a cafe - open to the public, together with a green wall and high quality landscaping.

“We are keen to hear what local people – and local businesses – think about our plans before we apply to the council for planning permission”, adds Kwong.

More details of the project, and an opportunity to comment, can be found at yourcall.befirst.london/industria