Former campus to be transformed into new community

Leading housebuilder George Wimpey East London and joint venture partner London & Quadrant Housing Trust have received planning permission to build a new community of housing in Barking.

The former University of East London Longbridge Road campus will be transformed into a development of three and four-bedroom family homes and one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with land reserved to build a primary school for the growing area.

As part of the construction plans, the landmark listed main university building at the front of the site, which dates back to 1936, will be retained and converted into just over 100 apartments.

Apartment buildings will range between five and ten storeys, affording fantastic views across the Mayesbrook Park and the local area.

When complete, the Academy Central development will comprise a total of 1,042 homes. Some 35% of these properties will be classed as ‘affordable' and will become available to own in line with the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham's policy.

Tina Dedman, Sales and Marketing Director for George Wimpey East London, says: "Homes at Academy Central will enjoy a contemporary style, yet reflect the existing civic architecture which is being retained.

"Our scheme will also increase the biodiversity of the area by incorporating ‘Green Links' - grass and parkland with paths and cycleways running from the north of the site to the Mayesbrook Park. A significant number of new trees will be planted, and green roofs to houses and apartments will be incorporated to further the biodiversity of this key development."

"A scheme of public art will also be provided in key locations around the site."

Selected properties will benefit from a range of design features including a centralised district heating system to offer environmental benefits and keep energy bills low, en-suite bathrooms and some with balconies to living areas and bedrooms, while each home will have a fitted kitchen with oven, hob and hood.

Located off Longbridge Road across to Mayesbrook Park and bounded by Lodge Avenue, the area has great opportunities for work and leisure, with Vicarage Field, The Mall and Exchange Mall shopping centres all within easy reach.

A choice of health and fitness centres are also located nearby, while Mayesbrook Park provides 100 acres of green space on the doorstep, including football pitches, tennis and basketball courts, lakes and children's playgrounds.

Goodmayes Railway Station is just a mile from the development, offering regular, 20-minute services to London's Liverpool Street.

Information on all George Wimpey developments across the region is available by visiting the web site at Georgewimpey.co.uk.