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UK: Re:shape has received unanimous approval from The Royal Borough of Greenwich for the 1,448-home Electric Works redevelopment in Woolwich, south-east London.
The decision paves the way for the revival of a central Woolwich block that has remained closed off for more than two decades and will now form a significant new mixed-tenure neighbourhood.
The town centre block – which has been derelict for more than 20 years – spans Powis Street, Macbean Street and Beresford Street. It will be transformed into a high-density, multi-tenure urban quarter centred on a major heritage refurbishment and a large-scale alternative living offer.
The approved masterplan, co-designed by Re:shape and DLA Architecture, will deliver a diverse housing mix, comprising 930 purpose-built student beds (PBSA); 425 coliving studios; and 93 residential homes, with 40 per cent affordable weighted heavily towards social rent.
The scheme will also include a fully restored historic Electric Works building retained as a civic anchor, new public realm, active ground-floor uses, community space and commercial floorspace
The site has been previously hampered by viability constraints. A 2021 application from Legal & General was refused due to affordable housing shortfalls and heritage concerns. It is close to Woolwich Arsenal station and the Elizabeth line interchange.
The consented plans include a stepped group of six buildings rising to 23 storeys, with new pedestrian routes reinstating long-lost links between Powis Street, Royal Arsenal and the wider town centre.
Jermaine Browne, co-founder of Re:shape, said: “Electric Works is a milestone not just for Re:shape but for Woolwich. This unanimous approval sends a clear message that ambitious regeneration, social value and meaningful housing delivery can sit together – and that SMEs have a decisive role in shaping the future of London. Our commitment is simple. Bring long-stalled sites back to life, create genuine mixed-living options for real people, and demonstrate that the next era of urban regeneration will be driven by innovation, inclusion and long-term thinking.”
With the resolution to grant now achieved, Re:shape will move into detailed design and procurement. A start on site is targeted for 2027, subject to the discharge of pre-commencement conditions and successful Gateway 2 approval.
Highlights:
• Re:shape has received unanimous approval from The Royal Borough of Greenwich for the 1,448-home Electric Works redevelopment in Woolwich, south-east London
• The approved masterplan, co-designed by Re:shape and DLA Architecture, will deliver a diverse housing mix, comprising 930 purpose-built student beds (PBSA); 425 coliving studios; and 93 residential homes, with 40 per cent affordable weighted heavily towards social rent
• The consented plans include a stepped group of six buildings rising to 23 storeys, with new pedestrian routes reinstating long-lost links between Powis Street, Royal Arsenal and the wider town centre
• A start on site is targeted for 2027, subject to the discharge of pre-commencement conditions and successful Gateway 2 approval
