The Lea River Park is an exciting new project in East London, part of the regeneration in the Lower Lea Valley managed by the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation. It will form the southern end of a green corridor of open space, extending from the River Thames in the south, along the path of the River Lea, to Hertfordshire in the north. Six park areas will be linked by the Fatwalk - six kilometres of parkland with footpaths and cycleways, new bridges and towpaths.

Phase 1

Development of the Lea River Park will be a long term project. The first phase will concentrate on the development of the 'Fatwalk', and see changes to the open spaces at either end of the 'Fatwalk'; East India Dock Basin and Three Mills Green. Phase 1 will be complete by 2012.

‘The Fatwalk’ will be the backbone of the Lea River Park, a large path connecting the River Thames at East India Dock Basin to the Olympic Park. You’ll be able to walk or cycle along this length of new parkland, experiencing different activities along the way. The energetic amongst us will be able to travel 26 miles from East India Dock Basin, up the Lee Valley, all the way to Ware in Hertfordshire.

The Fatwalk was submitted for planning permission in April 2010, and the changes to Three Mills Green are currently being designed.  Click on the links to the left to find out more about each park area. 

Thames21 are responsible for coordinating community involvement in the development of the Lea River Park.  If you need further information on any aspects of the project you can contact us by emailing aimee.felus@thames21.org.uk

Later phases

As funding is secured and industrial land is released Abbey Mills, Twelve Trees Crescent, Leven Road and the Limmo site in Canning Town will all become part of the Lea River Park.

Mill Meads and the historic buildings at Abbey Mills
The public will be able to enjoy Abbey Mills once again. The meads will be restored as water meadows to attract more wildlife, and some areas will become allotment space for the local community to grow their own. There will also be public routes through the historic Abbey Mills estate.

Twelve Trees
This huge site is currently used by National Grid for gas storage. It will become a major new visitor destination for London incorporating activities and facilities within the frames of the listed gasholders. The new parkland at Twelve Trees will provide a link to connect Bromley-by-Bow with West Ham.

Poplar River Park
This new park on Leven Road will include bridges across the river, giving access to the park for all neighbouring communities and linking into the Fatwalk. The park will be a place for learning, sport and recreation and will provide direct access to the river that is currently prevented by the existing gas holders and car compound.

Exotic Wild
Exotic Wild will be a natural area of parkland providing an unspoiled habitat for many kinds of plants and animals. A new raised viewpoint will be created, offering far-reaching views across the Lower Lea Valley.