HERTFORD ROAD

A lively waterfront destination with the largest and most biodiverse park in Barking

This landmark development masterplanned by Makower Architects for Baymoore marks the beginning of much needed regeneration along the River Roding in Barking. It was a unique opportunity to build on the town centre regeneration strategy’s ambition to “restore the river’s importance to Barking” and create an accessible and lively waterfront destination, delivering 850 new homes and the largest and most biodiverse park in Barking.

Located along the River Roding Valley and bounded by major urban arteries of the North Circular and London Road, the site is currently home to a Wickes store and dominated by a large car park, with a series of physical and contextual constraints: blocked pedestrian routes, industrial proximity, and hard boundaries that limit integration with the wider Barking area.

The masterplan is shaped by its relationship with a dynamic bend in the River Roding, where rich ecology and landscape form a protective green edge activated by the arrival of the bridge. In response to the river’s organic geometry, the buildings adopt chamfered, rotated forms that create a distinctive approach to riverfront living. Arranged around a new central park, the buildings frame and activate both the park and waterfront, delivering a permeable, vibrant public realm that departs from conventional linear riverside development.

Our vision transforms the hard-surfaced car park with only 8% green space into one 82% greenspace - forming the largest and most biodiverse park along the Barking riverfront.

Hertford Road Barking will cater to all ages and interests, offering a broad spectrum of spaces including play areas, educational and exercise zones, community hubs, workspaces, cafés, and wellness facilities. Children and teenagers will benefit from both traditional and organic play zones, including natural climbing structures and sports courts, encouraging

creativity and active engagement.

Key features include ecological wetlands, herb gardens, allotments, a crèche, gym, wetland centre, and outdoor fitness areas—all designed to promote health, wellbeing, and a deep connection with the environment.

Prioritising pedestrians, the scheme offers multiple access points to the river and restricts vehicle movement to improve safety and inclusivity. Together, these elements create a functional, attractive and ecologically rich public realm that supports a thriving, nature-connected community.

The masterplan is defined by three complementary building typologies that respond to their context: The Sculpted Blocks (A and C1) act as vibrant town centre landmarks along London Road, using bold form, colour and articulation to guide people into the heart of Barking. The Intermediate Blocks (B and C2) address the River Roding with a more fluid, landscape-led architecture, reflecting the movement and tranquillity of the waterfront setting. The Framed Blocks (D and E) draw on Barking’s industrial heritage, forming a robust edge to the road while enclosing softer, green interiors, with stepped forms and a material palette that responds to the surrounding open spaces.