Canada Water is undergoing a monumental transformation. Not just another development, but a bold blueprint for London’s future. Recently, Populate’s Head of Activation Joss Taylor, Socius’ Assistant Development Manager Izzy Meeke, and work experience student Gareth joined a tour of the city’s first new town centre in over 50 years.
Blending modern workspaces with retail and green public spaces, Canada Water is an impressive new district, where city living and working is reimagined, surrounded by parks, woodlands and water.
The tour was hosted by British Land, DP9 Architects, and Harvest London, with insights from key figures including:
- Georgina Weller, Development Manager, British Land
- Mike Meadows, Head of Planning and Public Affairs, British Land
- Hugh Sowerby, Director, DP9
- Matt Chlebek, Chief Scientific Officer, Harvest London
- Graham Clements, Team Leader, Development Management, Greater London Authority
Graham works strategically across both the Canada Water masterplan and has supported our London Cancer Hub proposals. He told us: “It was great to bring these two teams together, to share practical experiences and innovation, especially around the meanwhile use of projects and placemaking.”
The tour showcased inspiring examples of modular life science spaces and the TEDI engineering and design institute, as well as the Global Generation's community growing initiative at Paper Yard.
The group went on to visit the vibrant culture hub at Corner Corner, and the celebrated vertical farming operation by Harvest London, growing fresh, reliable, sustainable ingredients for the on-site food hall.
As we continue shaping the future of the London Cancer Hub, we’re inspired by the early activation strategies at Canada Water, proof that thoughtful placemaking can deliver real benefits to communities.
Joss says: “It was particularly encouraging to hear how the engagement strategy, developed with Southwark Council, has successfully streamlined early activation on site, giving tangible benefits to residents and visitors alike. We’re excited to bring some of this inspiration to the meanwhile and long-term activation on site at the London Cancer Hub.”
For more information: https://canadawater.co.uk/ https://cornercorner.com/ https://www.harvest.london/
