A report highlighting the impact of work to improve, grow and look after Thamesmead has been launched by Peabody.
Looking After Thamesmead: Our Story of Impact explores the many positive changes across the town since we launched our first five-year plan for Thamesmead in 2018. Highlighting our holistic approach to regeneration and renewal, the publication explores in detail the five themes we’ve identified as central to Thamesmead’s long-term success. These are day-to-day care, growth and regeneration, cultural activity, landscape improvements and maintenance, and community support.
Showcasing projects, partnerships, case studies and statistics, the publication demonstrates our commitment to realising Thamesmead’s potential as thriving new town for London. It includes references to extensive independent research by Arup and the Social Innovation Partnership (TSIP) – commissioned by us in 2018 to help us monitor change across the town and guide our ongoing work. Their research methods included an annual survey of 1,000 residents, interviews, focus groups, ethnographic research and spot surveys.
Headline findings from Looking After Thamesmead: Our Story of Impact include:
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15 community buildings created or refreshed, including: the new £10m Nest community building and library and £1.2m boating club in South Thamesmead; the £2.7m refurbishment of the iconic Lakeside Centre; and the £2.15m renovation of a much-needed community space at the Moorings
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600 new homes built, 2,200 homes under construction and 2,000 homes in the pipeline
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Several natural spaces created or refreshed for local people, including an outdoor education centre and nature reserve (Tump 53), six community gardens, a community orchard and a willow nursery.
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A 20% increase in biodiversity across two estates in South Thamesmead, and 1,200 volunteer hours spent improving biodiversity elsewhere.
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300+ culture events held and supported, including the annual Thamesmead Festival which now attracts around 8,000 visitors a year
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1,000+ people in the creative industries paid to work on projects in Thamesmead
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12,000 people taking part in health and wellbeing initiatives, 11,899 children engaged in community programmes and activities, and 2,274 people referred to support services
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£230,000 awarded to 114 local projects through the Thamesmead community fund
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74% of people agreeing that changes to public spaces have made Thamesmead look and feel more attractive
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85% of people visiting their local park or green space more than once a month (up from 63% in 2019).
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80% of Thamesmead residents reporting a sense of belonging (compared to a 62% London average)
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84% of people saying the Nest and redevelopment of Cygnet Square had improved their perceptions of the area.
John Lewis, Executive Director of Sustainable Places at Peabody said: “Peabody’s long-term plan for the town has marked a new beginning for Thamesmead. Our impact report is cause for celebration – capturing so much that’s being achieved in partnership with fantastic communities and expert organisations.
“Thanks to ongoing evaluation of the regeneration by Arup and TSIP, we’ve been able to monitor change across the town, build on what’s working well and adapt our work where needed. From supporting projects and events for local people, to driving forward the regeneration and renewal of neighbourhoods, we’re seeing positive change at scale.
“There’s a lot that’s been achieved but there’s also plenty more for us to do. Our focus now is on maintaining momentum. This involves us building on the many achievements we’ve made and addressing some big historic challenges. In keeping up the good work we’ll make sure Thamesmead can fulfil its potential as a thriving new town for London.”
Joanna Rowelle, London and South East Leader at Arup, said: “Peabody has an ambitious plan for Thamesmead – one which aims to benefit all those living in the town. Delivering regeneration at such a scale requires deep insights into Thamesmead and the people living there. Working with the Social Innovation Partnership, we’ve pioneered an innovative evaluation approach which has helped steer the direction of this significant programme of change to yield positive results. We congratulate all those who’ve played a part in Peabody’s regeneration plans on their achievements so far and look forward to seeing things progress in the future.”
Paul Thorogood, Chief Executive of the London Borough of Bexley, said: "We continue to work with Peabody towards the ambitious delivery of new homes, jobs and supporting infrastructure across Thamesmead and the north of Bexley. We are already seeing the area transformed, with excellent new facilities being built for the local community, such as the new library - The Nest - at Cygnet Square."
Debbie Warren, Chief Executive of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: "We're proud to be working in close collaboration with Peabody, the London Borough of Bexley and local landowners to support a thriving community in Thamesmead. The area has seen great progress in recent years and there is more exciting change to come. Together with Transport for London and other key partners, we’re pushing for the extension of the Docklands Light Railway to Thamesmead, which will enable the development of new housing and employment. We're committed to ensuring it's a great place to live and work, both now and in the future, with high quality homes, jobs and community services, a well connected transport network and beautiful, diverse green spaces."
