Poplar park - Postindustrial park in the Lea valley, London

Abstract

This diploma work deals with a site in East-London, on one of the most developing areas of the city. The
historic East-End is transformed due to the Olympic games in 2012. Several major mixed-use developments are realized near to Poplar Park, such as the centre of Canning Town, the large-scale development of Leamouth Peninsula and other residential areas
being built nearby. This means that there will be a high demand for quality open spaces and green areas. There
will be a new linear park built adjacent to the River Lea on the disused former industrial area. The former gas factory site of Poplar will be transformed into a community park linked to the riverside walk. My concept proposes community buildings at the Street frontage, and an urban square to create connection between the Street, the buildings and the park. Two existing gas holders will be kept as landmark buildings for the development, to create a visual focal point. An extended background research process supported the work, which included the history, analysis of open spaces, ecological value, built elements, visual connection,  traffic, and future developments nearby.