The transformation of Twickenham Riverside is moving rapidly ahead, with major construction works now underway across the site as the long-awaited regeneration of the town’s waterfront takes shape.
The latest phase follows months of demolition, piling, drainage and flood defence works, with two tower cranes now installed and construction of the superstructure beginning.
Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: “There is real momentum on site, with major construction now underway as we create a riverside that matches the ambition and character of Twickenham.
“Like many residents, I was disappointed that a small amount of opposition sought to delay the scheme, contributing to unnecessary costs for taxpayers at a time when construction costs were rising globally. What matters now is that we are moving forward at pace, with visible progress on the ground.
“This is about providing much-needed affordable homes, attracting new businesses, creating high-quality public spaces and reconnecting the town centre with the Thames – delivering a riverside residents can be proud of for generations to come.”
Recent works have included completion of foul and surface water diversions, basement excavation works at Wharf Lane and ongoing waterproofing and foundation works. Construction of pile caps and ground beams – key structural elements that support the new buildings – continues across the site, while demolition of the existing flood wall is also progressing.
The scale of activity on site is already substantial. More than 4,200 tonnes of demolition material – equivalent to around 350 London double-decker buses – has been crushed and reused on site, significantly reducing the need for heavy vehicle movement to remove material from the site
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Meanwhile, around 600 cubic metres of concrete has been poured for basement works at Wharf Lane, while 43 tonnes of reinforcement steel has been installed as the project moves into its next phase.
The council and construction company Kier are taking a sustainable approach to the works, with 95% of demolition materials set to be recycled or reused. Real-time monitoring is also in place to manage dust, noise, and vibration, while access to the riverside will be maintained throughout the works wherever possible.
Councillor Jim Millard, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Finance and Resources, said: “This is one of the most significant investments in Twickenham town centre for a generation. It is about investing in places, supporting local economic growth, and creating opportunities for residents and businesses.
“Not only will this development revitalise the town centre, but it will also help strengthen Twickenham’s future as a sought-after destination on the Thames, bringing new homes, jobs, public spaces, and increased footfall that will benefit the wider local economy.
“There’s a real sense of progress on site now, and I’d encourage anyone passing by to take a look through the viewing windows and see firsthand how Twickenham Riverside is being transformed.”
Main construction works will now move into the superstructure phase, with the visible structure of the development beginning to emerge above ground. This includes the installation of precast columns, stairwells and balconies using modern construction methods designed to reduce disruption to neighbouring residents and businesses.
What’s coming:
- New public spaces including terraced lawns, gardens, children’s play area, event space, and riverside seating
- 45 new homes, including 50% affordable housing, alongside new shops, café, office accommodation, and community spaces
- Improved pedestrian connections between King Street, Wharf Lane, Water Lane, and the riverside
- A revitalised riverside destination reconnecting Twickenham town centre with the Thames.
More broadly, the Richmond Growth Plan, launched earlier this year, sets out how the council will continue to support businesses, attract investment and strengthen Richmond’s position as one of London’s most dynamic local economies.
