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Mayor of London reveals 'floating village' plans for Royal Victoria Dock


Fifteen acres of water at Royal Victoria Dock in east London's Newham could be turned into a floating village with homes, restaurants, hotels and bars under plans published by the Mayor of London Boris Johnson.

The Mayor, who made the announcement travelling to a property conference in France, also launched a competition to find national or international developers and London partners to design and deliver the scheme. He said the move was part of his on-going drive to bring jobs, commercial space and homes back to the capital's waterways.

“This site is unique," said Johnson in a statement. "It has the potential to become one of the most sought after addresses in the capital while breathing new life back into London’s waterways."

"But it’s not alone. Right across London there are incredible investment opportunities that I’m determined to bring to market creating more homes and jobs for Londoners.  My message to the developers gathering at MIPIM is that London is the best place to invest,” Johnson said.

"London is moving eastwards and the Royal Docks offer an investment opportunity in scale unmatched anywhere in Europe," said Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales. "The Royal Docks were designated the capital's first new Enterprise Zone in recognition of the importance of the area to the future of London's economy."

"As today’s announcement shows, they have the capacity to attract modern sustainable businesses and deliver 21st century growth for the capital. It is essential that the transformation of the area translates into long-term prosperity, growth and jobs," Sir Robin said.

“This venture will provide a major boost for the local economy and further cement the area’s reputation as one of the capital’s must-visit places. Investment in the borough encompassing the Olympic Park and Stratford in the north through to Canning Town, Custom House and the Royal Docks in the south reflects Newham's status as London's regeneration priority for the next 25 years,"  said Sir Robin.

The Mayor said that the formal procurement process to create the village would begin this summer.

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