Canary Wharf Middle Dock transformation almost complete
A number of changes across the Middle Dock in Canary Wharf is nearing completion as a multi-million pound projects proceeds.
Expanded public space and a performance area are just two of the undertakings since plans were approved in 2023.
One of the biggest changes is a public space and steps cascading down out over the dock near the western entrance of the Jubilee line station.
Steps lead down with new greenery and tree planting. Work also extends around to the northern edge of the dock.
New crossing
Elsewhere work will see a new pedestrian bridge installed and pontoons across the dock.
A public swimming area is also due. While the dock has seen swimming during summertime, this project seeks to formalise the arrangement.
Note the crossing seen in the above image within approved plans which is yet to be installed.
A marine monitoring station is also proposed alongside floating gardens.
Construction
Terraces were first constructed to the west of Middle Dock before being moved into place.
Initial plans saw more of the dock covered but after consultation in 2022 the project’s scope was reduced.
An enlarged space in from of the Jubilee line station is also projected to be used for public performances.
These changes have come about as part of the Canary Wharf Group’s attempt to diversify usage of the estate. The pandemic sped up a process whereby office use seemed an increasing anachronism.
With much recent development focusing on residential usage, and the are becoming ever more popular as a leisure destination, moves have been made to capitalise on recent trends.
Housing and recent changes
To the east of the office blocks sits Wood Wharf, which includes residential towers.
To the north if North Quay, where life sciences offices and science labs are being built.
Space for uses other than the banks of old.
Future towers will comprise of homes, shops, and much else besides simply offices.
Even existing buildings aren’t escaping a changing world. The HSBC office block is being radically changed into mixed-uses.
The evolution of the area has been a site to beyond. From shipping and dockers (which my family were) to dereliction, finance and office blocks to current changes.
The DLR came, then the Jubilee line and now the Elizabeth line.
One of the next big moves will be Billingsgate market departing out to head out east to Dagenham Dock. To the north of that we can see three student towers rising – the current growth areas across London and beyond.
How it’ll be in 10 years, or 20 years? Your guess is as good as mine.
Hopefully we don’t lose too much more of the south, middle and north docks.
A fair amount is already a distant memory – yet the water makes this area special and is a key link to the past.
As for the middle dock, while much is now looking almost ready the entire project is due to complete in 2025.
You take away the water and you then destroy what makes the Canary so special, I hope Mr Khan and those responsible for future development inderstand this.Get it wrong and London will lose a wonderful asset.
I remember the first few buildings appearing in the late 80’s, prior to Canada Tower. Even then it was exciting. The DLR was a novelty, like a fairground ride. We all wondered if this new docklands development would be successful or become a white elephant. Never did I imagine it would become the huge metropolis within a city that it is today.