Howells wins approval for Orchard Wharf 1,365-bed student housing

Key Points

• Howells Architects secured planning approval for a 1,365-bed student housing scheme at Orchard Wharf, Canning Town, Tower Hamlets.
• The development includes 208 affordable homes, meeting London Plan targets for affordable housing.
• The project features a revitalised working wharf, creating a low-carbon river freight hub supporting Thames Clippers Logistics.
• The scheme incorporates over 7,400 square metres of public open space including landscaped gardens and children’s play areas.
• Howells’ design includes an elevated riverside garden, integrating thoughtfully with the surrounding Leamouth Peninsula neighbourhood.
• The scheme aims to ease demand in London’s wider rental market and contribute to the capital’s global education role.
• Construction is expected to commence in early 2026.
• Project partners emphasise the scheme’s role in balancing housing need, economic opportunities, and community benefit.

What is the overview of the Howells 1,365-bed student housing scheme approval in Canning Town?

As reported by Will Poole, Partner at Howells Architects, and Steve Harrington, Planning Director at Regal London, the Orchard Wharf development in Canning Town, Tower Hamlets, has received unanimous planning approval. This major riverside regeneration project combines 208 affordable homes with 1,365 purpose-built student accommodation units designed to address London’s growing student population and rental market pressures.

The scheme is positioned as a significant contribution to the regeneration of the Leamouth Peninsula area, offering both residential and economic benefits through high-quality housing provision and the nurturing of local logistics infrastructure.

What are the main features and design elements of the Orchard Wharf scheme?

According to Howells Architects, the development incorporates several forward-thinking elements designed to enhance resident experience and community integration. The scheme boasts more than 7,400 square metres of landscaped open space, including gardens and children’s play areas accessible to both residents and visitors.

A standout feature in Howells’ design is the elevated riverside garden, providing communal space that maximises views and engagement with the Thames waterfront. The design aims to balance density with thoughtful integration into the neighbourhood, ensuring that the large-scale student accommodation coexists harmoniously within the surrounding urban fabric.

How does the project aim to support sustainability and logistics in the area?

The Orchard Wharf project includes the revitalisation of a safeguarded working wharf, unlocking approximately 7,524 square metres of logistics floorspace for use by Thames Clippers Logistics. This transformation will establish a low-carbon river-based freight hub intended to reduce road traffic and support sustainable transport options.

Will Poole highlighted that the project represents a step change in London’s evolution towards climate-resilient infrastructure, linking housing development with sustainable economic activity along the Thames. This co-location of housing, employment, and public open space is seen as a model for future urban regeneration projects.

What has been said by key stakeholders about the approval?

Steve Harrington, Planning Director at Regal London, said: “We are delighted that Orchard Wharf has secured Planning Committee approval. This is an important step towards delivering new affordable homes and high-quality student accommodation in Tower Hamlets while ensuring the long-term future of the wharf as a sustainable logistics hub.”

Will Poole of Howells added: “The committee’s decision marks a step change in London’s evolution towards more climate-resilient infrastructure solutions. The scheme enables the delivery of more than 1,500 homes in this riverside location, prioritising affordable housing alongside rooftop residents’ gardens that will be difficult to match elsewhere in the capital. We are proud to have reached this stage as part of a talented and determined team”.

What is the significance of this scheme in the context of London’s housing and student accommodation demands?

The development aims to meet urgent housing needs in London by providing both affordable homes and specialist student accommodation. It addresses London Plan targets for affordable housing and alleviates pressures on the broader rental market by increasing the supply of purpose-built student rooms.

Furthermore, the project strengthens Tower Hamlets’ position at the forefront of London’s regeneration efforts, showcasing how underused riverside land can be sustainably unlocked to deliver multiple benefits, including economic opportunity, community wellbeing, and environmental resilience.

When will the construction begin, and what are the next steps?

Following receipt of planning permission, detailed design and delivery work will proceed with the aim of starting construction in early 2026. The project will be closely monitored to ensure compliance with planning conditions, especially regarding environmental standards and community impact.

Once completed, Orchard Wharf is expected to stand as a benchmark project for urban co-location in London, integrating housing, employment, and public realm in a single development and setting a precedent for future riverside regeneration schemes.