Abena Welcomes Thamesmead Selected for New Generation of New Towns
Abena Oppong-Asare, Member of Parliament for Erith and Thamesmead, has welcomed the announcement that Thamesmead has been identified as one of seven proposed new towns as part of the government’s most ambitious housebuilding programme in over fifty years.
The plans could see up to 15,000 new homes delivered in Thamesmead, helping to address London’s housing shortage while unlocking underused riverside land. The development will be supported by the planned extension of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), improving connectivity and access to jobs and opportunities across South East London and the capital.
Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:
“I warmly welcome Thamesmead being selected for this ambitious programme to deliver the homes and infrastructure our community needs.
“This is a major opportunity to transform the area, with new homes, jobs and the long-awaited DLR extension – something I have campaigned for since becoming an MP – finally bringing better connections for local residents.
“It is particularly encouraging to see a strong commitment to genuinely affordable homes, including homes for social rent, so local families can benefit.
“I will continue working with ministers, the local council, local partners and residents to ensure this development delivers for our community, both now and in the future.”
Cllr Anthony Okereke, Leader of Greenwich Council said:
”We know how much potential there is waiting to be unlocked in Thamesmead, and we’re thrilled the government also recognised as a New Town delivering up to 15,000 new homes and 6000 jobs.”
“Earlier this year, the council welcomed fresh investment for our long-championed campaign to extend the Docklands Light Railway to Thamesmead. The New Town regeneration and potential rail link would create new jobs, new housing and boost business to an area that benefits from better transport links.
“Thamesmead represents one of the largest regeneration areas in London and we will continue to work together with our partners the Greater London Authority, Transport for London, Peabody and Lendlease, to realise its full potential for existing and new communities.”
Housing Secretary Steve Reed said:
“People want real change – homes they can afford, local infrastructure that works, and good jobs in thriving communities.
“Our next generation of new towns marks a turning point in how we build for the future.
“From the ground up, we’re planning whole communities with homes, jobs, transport links, and green spaces designed together – so we can give families the security and opportunities they deserve.”
Abena Oppong-Asare MP has long campaigned for investment in Thamesmead, including through her “Next Stop Thamesmead” campaign calling for the DLR extension. She has consistently raised the area’s potential in Parliament and supported its inclusion as a possible New Town, including in a debate earlier this year where she welcomed Thamesmead being identified by the New Towns Taskforce.
She has also submitted written parliamentary questions to ministers to ensure Thamesmead remains a priority, highlighting its potential to deliver new homes and drive economic growth.
The new towns programme will create well-planned communities with homes, schools, healthcare, green spaces and transport infrastructure delivered together, supporting modern, sustainable neighbourhoods. The programme forms part of the government’s wider strategy to tackle the housing crisis, boost economic growth, and build thriving communities across the country.
