Tower Hamlets Council in the UK has granted approval for the redevelopment of Orchard Wharf, a long-vacant site on the north bank of the River Thames in London. 

The location, a safeguarded wharf unused since the 1990s, will include affordable housing, student accommodation, and a return to waterborne freight activity. 
 
Tower Hamlets Council regeneration, inclusive development, and house-building cabinet member and councillor Kabir Ahmed said: “The scheme responds directly to London’s acute housing pressures, offering high-quality, tenure-secure homes for our residents. 
 
“The homes on the site are 100% affordable and include 65 family-sized homes that are much needed in our borough. 
 
“This is the latest major redevelopment that we’ve approved in Tower Hamlets, and it will transform this vacant site into a vibrant new neighbourhood and create many new opportunities and jobs.”  

The scheme will consist of 208 affordable homes across two riverside buildings, 1,365 student units spread across five blocks, and 526m² of commercial space along Orchard Place, as well as new landscaping, public realm works, and pedestrian routes to the river.

Additionally, 70% of the affordable homes are designated at Tower Hamlets and Mayor of London Affordable Rent levels.  

This allocation includes 65 family properties and 21 wheelchair-accessible units. 
 
All homes are planned to be built in line with minimum space standards, with features such as podium gardens, private outdoor areas, and views of the Thames and East India Dock Basin. 
 
The wider plan outlines seven buildings ranging between eight and 24 storeys.  

The site will continue to hold its safeguarded wharf designation, with a Wharf Box logistics facility at ground level to support river freight activity. 
 
The Orchard Wharf scheme has been designed to align with the London Plan’s objectives for low-carbon freight, using last-mile deliveries by low-emission vehicles and maintaining a car-free approach within the development.